Recommendations for beginners

I would suggest you try a PMC+ 18g deluxe starter kit.  PMC+ is cheaper than PMC3, so is better when you are starting off.  Although PMC3 fires at a lower temperature so it can be used with some gems that would normally burn at a high temperature. And 18g is enough to get you started without spending a fortune.  PMC3 is a little bit stronger, so if you plan to make rings, then go for PMC3.  I know everyone wants to make rings, but I would never advise your first project to be one as they are quite tricky!

The only thing I'd recommend to add to the kit would be a packet of polishing papers.   You can get quite a good shine using a brass brush, but to get really shiny, polishing papers are great!