AFAIK, the only thing that affects how well you can mine/log/harvest is the Field gear (tunica, gloves, hose, and boots) or +1 version Worker gear. The items say "improve results of blah blah blah". Not sure if that means it actually improves the rate at which you get results from the activity, or if it reduces the amount of tool breakage, or both. FYI, only 3 pieces of gear affect mining -- Tunica, Gloves and Boots. Field/Worker Hose affects logging and harvesting, but not mining.
My first attempt at mining was in Palborough Mines. And without any Field gear on, I lucked out and got a chunk of Platinum Ore. So yeah, no prior experience needed.