current best gems to level with in ssf without carry over gear/materials?

whats the easiest way to level a new build without using carryover gear/materials basically a fresh start?

i assume it would be a spell since they are not weapon dependent..

spark?

minion/fire wall?

trying to level with minions seems sketchy since u need to rely on spirit

using a 2 handed weapon mace/bow/xbow seems risky since early u are already squishy to every thing and have very limited access to energy shield gear or resist gear so giving up a shield slot seem bad..

so whats the idea set up to level a new build?