The name “onyx” is translated from Greek as “nail”. This mineral has powerful energy. In addition, it is endowed with healing and magical qualities. According to legend, it represents a piece of Aphrodite's nail, which was accidentally cut by her son Eros.
Onyx is a semi-precious stone and is a type of agate. Its peculiarity lies in the stripes of various colors and tones located on it.
Depending on the predominance of one shade or another, minerals are divided into:
- clean (white);
- Arabic (black);
- sardonyx (brown);
- carnelian (red);
- chalcedonyx (gray).
The value of the mineral depends on the size and tone of the strips. The most popular are pure and Arabic stones.
General information about white onyx
White onyx is a semi-precious stone with powerful energy.
This semi-precious natural stone with stripes of different colors is a member of the agate variety of quartz. Specimens with a marble color are considered a popular species, since they are less common than other gems. The mineral has strong energy and has healing properties. Talismans from it bring good luck and protect against loneliness.
History of discovery
The gem was popular among the ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. Legend has it that one day Cupid carved Venus's nails with an arrowhead while she was sleeping, and the three daughters of Zeus, who wove the thread of each person's destiny, immediately turned them to stone so that no part of the body of the goddess of love could be destroyed.
In Ancient Greece, onyx was the name for chalcedony of all colors: from white to dark brown and black. Later the Romans used this name only for black and dark brown stones.
In nature, a gem is formed in hot springs under a number of conditions: the required level of acidity and the corresponding water temperature, a decrease in pressure, the concentration of carbonate anhydride, etc. When the stone is formed, tectonic cavities and cracks are filled, and stalagmites appear in grottoes.
Mining locations
Onyx appears naturally from calcite in caves when water drips and evaporates from the ends of stalagmites and stalactites. It then leaves behind traces of minerals and calcium carbonate, which creates parallel bands of different colors created by the alternating silica minerals quartz and morganite.
Onyx deposits are found in many countries around the world.
For this reason, agate is often mistaken for onyx, as it occurs in the same way. However, the layers produced by the formation of this silica are not parallel. Instead, the alternating stripes form a more sharply curved shape.
The mineral is found in the USA, Uruguay, Pakistan and Madagascar, Mexico, Brazil, India and Yemen. There are also small reserves of white nugget in Russia. Onyx is found mainly in caves in Mexico, Turkey and Iran, with varying degrees of purity associated with them. The most valuable specimens are mined on the Arabian Peninsula.
Types and shades of stone
Onyx with a completely white color and black veins is found in rare cases. The name depends on the color of the stripes:
- sardonyx - a species with brown and white veins;
- carnelian - with white and red;
- chalcedony-onyx - with white and black.
Onyx with light veins is more common. Their shade depends on mineral inclusions.
Physicochemical characteristics
Onyx is a volcanic rock that arises from magma. The oxide is formed by silica containing manganese and iron. If it gets into the cavities, it crystallizes into onyx. The stone is a type of chalcedony, a silicate mineral consisting of calcite (similar to marble and granite) and having contrasting layers of various impurities. These inclusions create visual effects: a monochrome or multi-colored surface, layers and spots.
Basic physical and chemical properties include the following indicators:
- chemical formula - SiO2;
- abrasion - up to 1.7 g/cm²;
- hardness (Mohs scale) - up to 7;
- compressive strength - up to 100 MPa;
- water absorption - up to 0.4%;
- porosity index - 0.4-0.9%;
- density - 2.5-2.7 g/cm³.
Physico-chemical indicators are similar to those of granite; according to some criteria, onyx is superior to it (this concerns the level of frost resistance, water absorption, hardness).
Use in the modern world
Since ancient times, onyx has been used for decorative purposes, art and sculpture. The white and black varieties were often used together.
Onyx has a layered structure, where carbonates alternate with agate. The carrying capacity of stones varies. These qualities make it possible to use the mineral as a material for cladding furniture and interior decoration. A special feature of onyx is its ease of processing.
The gem is used as a material for small crafts and for creating expensive decorative items: lamps, floor lamps, fireplace counters, kitchen panels and mosaics, chests of drawers and cabinets, clocks, glasses, boxes, safes.
The mineral is widely used in jewelry; it is equated with jasper, lapis lazuli and obsidian, which fill the second class of colored ornamental stones. Various jewelry is made from the gem: bracelets, earrings, rings, necklaces, pendants, cufflinks.
The gem is used to make home decor items.
Who is suitable by zodiac sign and name
The color variety of the mineral ensures excellent compatibility of onyx and zodiac signs of different elements. Each type complements the zodiac characteristics and strengthens the connection between a person’s internal energy and the outside world. The following table shows information about who a particular type of mineral is suitable for according to their zodiac sign, and how it affects the person.
| Zodiac sign | Suitable mineral | How does it affect |
| Aries | Red | Helps make informed decisions, reduces the intensity of negative emotions, improves communication skills. |
| Taurus | Sardonyx | It will improve their sphere of interpersonal interaction and strengthen their self-esteem. It will also show the path in your personal and professional life. |
| Twins | Sardonyx | It will help you gain emotional stability, decide on your professional field, and learn to master your creative and leadership abilities. |
| Cancer | Blue | Natural inertia, shyness and indecisiveness will become less pronounced by strengthening leadership qualities and a sense of self-confidence. |
| Virgo | Chalcedony | Will bring harmony to internal and external psychological relationships. Will guide you to correct mistakes and protect you from making new ones. |
| a lion | Black | Strengthens leadership qualities and imparts oratorical abilities. Increases self-confidence and gives the ability to manage emotions. |
| Scales | Blue | Doubting Libras will gain the ability to act quickly and decisively, and will also become more sociable. |
| Scorpion | Carnelian | Helps you cope with problems during difficult emotional periods. It will also become an assistant in strengthening family ties. |
| Sagittarius | Black | Protects from the influence of ill-wishers, increases the sense of self-worth and directs a person’s bright abilities in the right direction. |
| Capricorn | Black | It will make them more loyal to the opinions of their loved ones and at the same time strengthen the professional and personal positions of Capricorns. |
| Aquarius | White | The innate sense of freedom and defiance transforms into independence and the ability to become a reliable friend and partner. |
| Fish | Chalcedony | It will land Pisces dreaming and flying in the clouds. Will become an assistant in performing practical, everyday tasks. It will help to establish relationships with old acquaintances and strengthen connections with distant relatives. |
Although it goes with all zodiac signs, it is best suited for:
- Aries;
- Cancer;
- Aquarius.
Onyx goes well with names that have a variety of meanings. It will protect and treat its owner in case of characterological and zodiac compatibility. There are several female names with which he enters into a strong relationship:
- Anastasia;
- Zhanna;
- Love;
- Darina;
- Caroline;
- Ksenia;
- Adeline;
- Violet;
- Svetlana;
- Catherine;
- Nina.
Male names that are associated with the stone:
- Alexei;
- Dmitriy;
- Nikolai;
- Dragomir;
- Makar;
- Plato;
- Sergey;
- Svyatoslav;
- Michael;
- Hermann;
- Ivan;
- Vadim.
The healing properties of white onyx
Since ancient times, onyx has been considered a healing stone. The following properties are attributed to him:
- strengthening the immune system;
- improvement of hearing and digestive system;
- acceleration of the healing process of wounds, scars, burns;
- treatment of disorders associated with poor blood circulation in the heart and brain;
- strengthening the nervous system and psyche.
It gives health to the skin and hair, thus maintaining youth. For children, onyx increases attention, helps concentrate and stimulates brain activity.
Origin
- The world of stones is sometimes like the world of bureaucrats. If you are looking for onyx, you are referred to agate, from there to chalcedony, from there to silicas. And the end point is quartz.
- Onyx is formed as a result of carbonate deposits in the presence of thermal mineral waters.
- Aragonite marble onyx is formed from hot mineral springs in volcanic areas in the form of mantles, veins and sinter formations.
- In karst cavities among limestones, calcite onyx forms stalactites and stalagmites.
Magical properties of the stone
In ancient times, onyx was the most important gemstone and was considered a protector from evil and black magic. Since then, its properties have spread to many areas of human activity.
The stone is often found as an addition to a grave, as it protects the dead on the journey to the afterlife.
Impact on personality
Onyx is believed to increase self-esteem, help get rid of depressive thoughts and overcome difficulties. It develops mental abilities, ingenuity, and observation. The mineral gives its owner more cheerfulness, harmony and helps with depression, promotes sober logical and analytical thinking. The stone develops oratory skills and the ability to competently argue in discussions. Onyx supports healthy self-actualization, which is why some call it the “stone of the egoist.”
Products made from the mineral help overcome shyness and increase self-esteem.
How to use in practice
Balls and pyramids made of onyx are considered strong talismans: this form concentrates energy and directs it in the necessary direction. As an amulet, the stone can be used to protect against foreign magic, cleanse the aura and remove the evil eye, overcome fear, and feel confident. To do this, just carry it with you.
To heal burns and wounds, it is necessary to apply the mineral to the sore spot. It is recommended to massage with egg-shaped onyx for muscle pain. If you want to lose weight, then water infused with this stone can help achieve your goal.
How do different peoples relate to stone?
Each nation has its own attitude towards this unusual stone. In Africa, it was previously used as coins with different denominations depending on shape, color and pattern. The Indians used the gem to make amulets and amulets. In China, on the contrary, they shunned it because they considered onyx to be the personification of misfortune. The Arabs also saw it as a warning sign. In Ancient Egypt, the mineral was used as a facing material. In Ancient Rus', for healing it was necessary to drink water from an onyx bowl.
For different zodiac signs
From an astrological point of view, if you want to choose a stone as a talisman or amulet, then this should be done only in accordance with the horoscope. Onyx in this case is no exception.
The gem is suitable for Capricorn and Aries. He will give them peace of mind. White onyx can serve as a talisman for Virgo and Sagittarius: it makes them more balanced and attentive. Other zodiac signs may not fully feel the influence of the mineral. To a lesser extent, the properties of the stone are revealed for Gemini and Pisces: the gem is contraindicated for these signs, as it can increase their tendency to depression.
The stone becomes a talisman for strong personalities and those who have positive moral qualities. Otherwise, the mineral will not help the person.
History and deposits of the mineral
At different times, people’s attitude towards gems was ambiguous:
- In Eastern countries, the stone has long been considered a harbinger of sorrows and misfortunes. There the mineral was called “al jazzo”.
- In India, the stone was revered as a divine amulet associated with the other world. This is where another name came from – “tear of the mountain spirit.”
- The Assyrians loved the gem. They believed that it brings only joy and saturates life with events. They lined walls with it and made figurines.
- In Yemen, the mineral was identified with the eyes of dead women, so people tried to avoid its deposits.
- Among Muslims, the gem was especially revered and exalted. One famous Muslim prophet owned a ring with this stone. He said that reading one prayer with a white onyx ring corresponds to seventy prayers performed without it.
Nowadays, snow-white onyx has not lost its sacred meaning.
People continue to believe in its magical powers and use other beneficial properties of the stone. The main deposits of the gem are located in the following countries:
- Brazil;
- USA;
- Uruguay;
- India;
- Pakistan;
- Arabian Peninsula.
How to Wear and Care for White Onyx
It is believed that the stone itself chooses its future owner. For this reason, you must hold the product in your hands before purchasing. In order for the magical properties to act constantly, onyx must always be carried with you. Winter is considered the most suitable time to wear it, since onyx is a cold mineral. If you wear a ring, it is better to put it on the middle finger of your working hand.
Caring for stone and jewelry made from it is easy. It is enough to clean the mineral with neutral means, a soap solution when it becomes dirty, do not use household chemicals, protect it from temperature changes and exposure to sunlight, and do not store it together with other stones. The gem should be kept in a place where daylight does not penetrate. You can keep a separate box for this.
Onyx jewelry is cleaned with a soap solution.
Jewelry industry
Onyx jewelry is especially popular. It is a semi-precious stone, so it is most often set in silver or cupronickel. These metals almost double the healing and magical properties of the gem. The most optimal shape would be a circle or oval; the surface of the stone should be smooth and shiny.
The white stone is the most expensive compared to other multi-colored onyxes. That is why it is often framed in precious metals such as white, yellow, red gold and platinum.
White onyx cost
Determining the cost per 1 g is not so easy - the price depends on many factors. The main ones are the type of stone, the presence of a frame, inserts, and combinations with other metals. The price of 1 m² of mineral for finishing is 20,000-50,000 rubles. The cost of a white onyx ring is 750-1100 rubles, a necklace is 1700-2000 rubles. If we consider jewelry in combination with precious metals, then silver earrings with onyx will cost 15,000-20,000 rubles.
Jewelers value gems that have a wide range of layers. Their thickness is also taken into account: the smaller it is, the more expensive the product.
From Solomon's Palace to French Jewelry
Magnificent vases-lamps made of translucent marble onyx were found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. Several thousand “alabastron” vessels made from gemstones were discovered in one of the Egyptian pyramids.
In Jerusalem, the walls of the Temple of Solomon were made of marble onyx, in which, thanks to the translucency of the stone, there was light without windows.
The base of the internal walls of the Gur-Emir mausoleum in Samarkand is lined with greenish-yellow translucent onyx. There is a stone in the decoration of the Gatchina Palace near St. Petersburg, and there are two tabletops made of this stone.
By the early 1920s in France, geometric shapes with a contrast of black and white began to predominate in jewelry. The combination of white platinum and diamonds with black onyx and black enamel looked impressive.
origin of name
English name: onyx.
In the Torah the mineral is called shoham, in Theophrastus - onychion, in Pliny the Elder - onychion or onyx-gemma. In Old Indian lapidaries it is also called gemma.
Expert opinion
Semenishcheva Polina
Specialist in mineralogy. Graduated from St. Petersburg Mining University.
Note : this name was subsequently transferred to all gems, hence the term gemology.
Translated from Arabic, the name means “sadness.”
The modern name comes from the Greek word onyx (ὄνυξ) - nail.
Ribbon agate, nogat, chalcedony onyx, onychium - this is what our hero is called.
Compatibility with other gems
A stone with very powerful magical energy is considered self-sufficient. It is not recommended to combine onyx with other minerals, because it will suppress their action and become capricious.
If you plan to wear it for treatment purposes or to correct your character, I advise you to abandon other gems for a while. The stone should be stored in a separate box so that its energy does not come into contact with others.
