Actually there is a way to make them. The Umbala quests.
First you need to do the language quest:
http://healplz.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=101#101And then you need to do the Shaman Part:
http://irowiki.org/wiki/Ore_DowngradingThe Shaman part is annoying becuase you won't get access to the hut until you get the gem combination right (some think that different tiles require different gem sets. Or it may just be random. Just keep trying.)
Also, the guide I have for the Shaman quest here uses a specific tile and specific gems. So try that first, making sure you're on the correct tile. You can check your coords with /where .
If that doesn't work get a yellow gem stone and try different combination out of blue, red or yellow stones.
Anyways, this quest will allow you to break down ores or make them out of stuff like shells.
(I use to use the guide on Rocards, but I can't seem to find it there.)