I have to completely agree with Claudius here....all except with the use of the caravan....just because I consider all my characters part of one big family so if I find the item legitimately then I should be able to give it to the "baby brother" of the character family to use via the caravan....but thats just my thoughts anyways...
Definately would recommend that you do not fall into the realm of getting "homemade" items. There are plenty of great items out there for you to find and use for your character.
My suggestions would be to try and farm either the Centaur Chief fella near Sparta, the Cyclops near Megara, the Scorpion King near Fayum, Bandari near Changan (terracota soldiers Sorceror)...or....well I don't want to give too much away...
Try one of the above then go from there...
