WORKING MOTHER-OF-PEARL

fw190pilot · Post by **fw190pilot** » Thu Apr 30, 2009 2:09 pm

Hello everyone,I'm new here and could use your help. I have loved spring steel since about age 10 when I sneeked my Dad's Mex Bullfighter out of his office and snapped it for the 1st. time. I am making new real mother-of-pearl scales for a model 7406T Schrade 3 3/8" double. I have never worked with MOP before, what is the method you experences guys use to cut, drill.and polish this type of material.

Thanks

Post by **tr4252** » Thu Apr 30, 2009 3:31 pm

Welcome, fw190pilot. I think you're in luck, this subject has been discussed in other threads. Several members here have knowledge on the subject.

Tom

Cryptomecanic · Post by **Cryptomecanic** » Sat May 02, 2009 8:05 pm

wear a respirator so you don't breathe any of the dust,I hear it will really tear up your lungs if your not carefull

butch · Post by **butch** » Sun May 03, 2009 12:46 am

indeed it will,ive been told its toxic and also told its just a myth but dont chance it either way.

Post by **Bill DeShivs** » Sun May 03, 2009 1:42 am

Pearl is best worked and sanded wet.
Using cushioned abrasives like rubber wheels will minimize chipping. Use sharp drill bits and let the bit do the cutting-don't use much pressure or you will break the pearl. Carbide drills and grinding bits work well.
Wet sand the pearl to about 400-600 grit, then buff.

Jeff · Post by **Jeff** » Sun May 03, 2009 5:19 am

Heres a link I checked out a while ago with similar questions I had about working with mop jwpilot. It's basically a detailed description of some of what Bill said.
http://www.pearlgifts.bizland.com/working_tips.html

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