A method of fabricating articles, such as an oxide ceramic article, is disclosed. The method includes cutting an oxide ceramic workpiece in a cutting zone and applying a cutting fluid to the cutting zone. The cutting fluid includes an aqueous solution which contains a sufficient amount of a boron compound to effectively provide lubrication. The boron compound is selected from the group consisting of boric acid, alkali metal borates, aluminum borate, and mixtures thereof. A method of fabricating articles, which includes cutting a workpiece in a cutting zone with an oxide ceramic cutting point and applying a cutting fluid to the cutting zone is also disclosed.