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How to Cut Geodes With Water

Geodes are interesting geological phenomenons that from the outside look like any other rock in the dirt. But on the inside they are full of crystals---either colorful, clear, grey or hazy. The color of the crystals depends on the type of contaminant that enters the geode when it is forming. The only way to experience a geode is to open it up. The easiest way to do this is to use a saw that utilizes a diamond cutting blade and water. Geodes can be broken open, but much of the beauty may be lost if the whole geode crumbles.

Things You'll Need

  • Wet tile saw
  • Water
  • Water pump
  • Tile saw stand or table
  • Safety glasses
  • Hearing protection
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set a wet tile saw up on a table or tile saw stand and fill the water tub with water. Be sure that the water pump is in place and the water pump hose is connected to the blade housing.

    • 2

      Place the geode on the cutting table and line the geode up with the diamond blade exactly where you would like the cut to be made. Put on a pair of safety glasses and hearing protection.

    • 3

      Turn the tile saw on and allow the blade to spin up to full speed and for the water to flow against the blade.

    • 4

      Slowly push the cutting table towards the diamond blade. Allow the diamond blade to pass through the geode slowly so the cut will be smoother.

    • 5

      Separate the two halves of the geode and pull the cutting table away from the cutting blade. Rinse the two halves of the geode with clean water. Take a look at the contents of the geode while you allow the geode to dry.

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