Onyx: The Obscurity Stone

Onyx is a fascinating gemstone, renowned for its timeless beauty and elegance. This gem is a variety of chalcedony, part of the quartz family.

Onyx is distinguished by its predominantly black colour, although white, grey, brown and red varieties are also available.

What makes onyx so captivating are its distinctive concentric bands, often in white or cream, which give it a unique, marbled appearance.

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Onyx Geological Formation

Onyx is a type of chalcedony, and therefore polycrystalline quartz, formed in the voids of lava flows. It is mainly composed of silica minerals and is renowned for its deep black colour.

The unique patterns of bands or layers seen in onyx are the result of the deposition of successive layers of minerals, creating a striking contrast between the black and white bands.

Rough Onyx – Raw Beauty

Unlike many gems, onyx has a distinctive polycrystalline structure made up of microscopic crystals, which contributes to its bewitching appeal. Onyx has no distinct crystalline form.

Sources – The Worldwide Reach of Onyx

Onyx comes from different parts of the world, including Madagascar, Brazil, France, India, Pakistan and the United States. Each region brings unique qualities to the gem, increasing its desirability.

Historical Significance of Onyx – Through the Ages

Onyx has a rich historical significance dating back thousands of years, and its appeal has captivated different civilisations throughout human history. The gem’s distinctive black colour and unique banding patterns have made it a sought-after material for both ornamental and functional purposes.

Here are some highlights of onyx’s historical importance:

Ancient Egypt :

Onyx was highly revered by the ancient Egyptians, who used it to create amulets, seals and jewellery. It was associated with protection and believed to have the power to guard against evil spirits and negative energies.

Onyx was also used as an important material in the creation of funerary objects and sarcophagi in ancient Egypt.

Ancient Greece and Rome :

Onyx was very present in the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. It was often used to create cameos and intaglios, complex sculptures used for jewellery and seals. The contrasting layers of black and white in onyx made it an ideal material for creating detailed, visually striking designs.

Onyx was also associated with the god Saturn in Roman mythology.

Renaissance period :

During the Renaissance, onyx continued to be prized for the creation of cameos and intaglios. The gem gained popularity with European royalty and nobility for its elegant appearance and versatility in art and jewellery.

Mesoamerican civilisations :

Onyx was of particular importance to various Mesoamerican civilisations, including the Aztecs and the Mayans. It was used to create finely crafted jewellery and ornamental objects, often decorated with intricate carvings and religious symbols. The gem was also associated with rituals and spirituality in these cultures.

Islamic art :

Onyx had a special significance in Islamic art and architecture. It was widely used to create complex and elaborate designs in mosques and palaces. The black and white bands of onyx were often combined with other coloured stones to create superb geometric patterns, known as ‘arabesque’ motifs.

Victorian era :

During the Victorian era, onyx enjoyed a resurgence in popularity thanks to the gem’s elegant, timeless appeal. It was often used in mourning jewellery because of its dark black colour, symbolising grief and remembrance.

Modern period :

Today, onyx remains a popular gem for both men’s and women’s jewellery. Its elegant, black appearance continues to be appreciated in rings, necklaces, bracelets and other adornments.

Onyx is often used as an accent stone in combination with other gems, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the jewellery.

Metaphysical Properties of Onyx – Illuminating Energies

Black onyx is believed to possess powerful metaphysical virtues. It is associated with strength, protection and rootedness. The gem is often used to enhance inner strength, self-control and balance.

Onyx is also thought to absorb negative energy, making it a popular choice for spiritual practices.

Onyx Varieties

Onyx comes in several varieties, each with its own unique appearance and properties. Some notable varieties include :

Black onyx :

The best-known variety, characterised by its deep black colour and occasional white stripe pattern.

Zoned Onyx :

Featuring striking stripe patterns, this variety has alternating black and white stripes. It is also known as Arabian onyx.

Sardonyx :

This variety combines layers of sardony (a reddish variety of chalcedony) with black onyx, giving a distinctive reddish-brown and black stripe pattern.

Nicolo Onyx :

This variant features a very thin layer of white on a solid black base.

Blue onyx:

This onyx has blue layers.

Colors of Onyx

Onyx gems have black and often white bands. They also frequently show shades of yellow to red and blue in the layers.

Durability and Wearability of Onyx

Onyx is extremely durable, scoring between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale. It is suitable for different types of jewellery, including rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets. However, because of its susceptibility to scratches and chips, proper care is essential to preserve its beauty.

Onyx Enhancements – Preserving Natural Beauty

Black onyx is very often tinted. Most stones called onyx are generally greyish chalcedony treated with acid and boiling sugar, so that the carbon can fill the pores and give an intense black colour.

It is best to assume that all black onyx is treated and stained, unless otherwise stated in a reputable report.

Onyx Synthétique – Nature in the Laboratory

Synthetic onyx is not common on the market. Due to the abundance of natural onyx and imitations, laboratory-created imitations are not widely produced.

Imitations of Onyx – Discerning the Authentic

Buyers should take care to avoid imitation materials masquerading as onyx, such as black glass, black spinel and black cubic zirconia (CZ). Choosing reputable sellers and ensuring proper certification can help guarantee the authenticity of onyx gems.

Onyx Care – Preserving natural beauty

To preserve the timeless beauty of onyx, proper care is essential.

Avoid exposing onyx to aggressive chemicals, extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature.

Gently clean onyx jewellery with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution, and keep them separate to prevent scratching.

Thanks to its porous nature, Onyx can be oiled gently at home.