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[jerrysg]

We just acquired some Arizona Blue Opal. Mostly blue common opal (still makes some nice cabs) but some play of fire can be seen. 

The question I have is: can I use my 10" saw which is now is using mineral oil to trim away the matrix rock or do I need to use a water based lubricant and change the saw over?

Jerry

[gemfeller]

Do you have a smaller trim saw, 4" or 6"?  That's what I use with water as a coolant to remove matrix and slice opal as needed.  Opal is permeable -- oil will penetrate into it and can change the color.  A smaller saw can be switched from water to oil easily but a 10-inch may be another deal altogether.  I'd recommend using water only for opal.

[jerrysg]

Thanks for the reply. That's what I was afraid I would hear.

I do have a smaller trim saw. Use 4" and 5" blades with water only.  Was planning on using it for the smaller pieces but it's too small for the large ones.  One of our local clubs has a couple of hydraulic trimmers and I will probably be using the larger one to cob off the majority of the matrix on the larger pieces. Then use our smaller saw to get to suitable roughs.

Jerry