Onyx is an ornamental stone that is a chalcedony variety of quartz. A distinctive feature of onyx is its peculiar striped color, which is created by parallel layers of stone containing various impurities.
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Video with interesting facts about onyx
The color of the mineral stripes, depending on the type of these impurities, can be different: Arabic (black) onyx is black and white, carnelian (carnelian) has red and white stripes, sardonyx is brown or orange-white.
History and origin
The stone appears in myths and legends. They decorated royal chambers, tombs, robes and regalia of priests.
Onyx
The Old Testament states that this ornamental stone (and not marble) was used to build Solomon's temple. The structure did not have windows, but was filled with light: the material transmitted it well. Onyx was in Eden and on the breastplate of the high priest of Judah.
The gem is mentioned in ancient Greek mythology. Onyxes are the petrified nails of Aphrodite. While the goddess was sleeping, her son Eros cut them off. Onyx translated from ancient Greek means “nail”. Externally, the pebble also resembles a marigold.
This is a sacred attribute of Islam: the stone in the main Muslim shrine of the Kaaba is black onyx.
The Aztecs valued above all others the influence of a pale green mineral with brown-orange layering. Temples were decorated with it, and sacrificial vessels were made from it. Religious and secular buildings were erected from the gem.
Modern architects also use onyx, but more artificial. The tiles are used to cover subway stations, official and private residences, chic restaurants, and clubs.
Stone of strength and confidence
When choosing an amulet, you should not rush and focus only on the appearance of the jewelry, because those who are suited to Onyx internally feel its properties and meaning. Onyx literally encrypts the code of success and power.
People tend to see their own, but more often than not, we deny this instinct, replacing it with fashion trends. Due to the color variety, the number of onyxes is huge, and they are individual.
The stone will build protective energy around the owner and become a dome, provided that you are firm and calm in your decisions and actions. As soon as the cup of choice in you begins to swing, this mineral will aggravate your situation.
Onyx is definitely not suitable for you if:
- You are unsure of your strengths and desires.
- You are afraid to take the first step, motivating this uncertainty with the ability to calculate the situation.
- You deny inner anger and desire for revenge when in fact they are present within you.
- You fear for your life more than for your emotional state.
Physicochemical characteristics
Onyx is silicon dioxide, a chalcedony variety of quartz. The color of natural onyx is created by impurities.
The physical properties of onyx make it comparable to marble or granite. It surpasses them in frost resistance, water absorption or hardness.
| Formula | SiO2 |
| Color | Brown with white and black patterns, red-brown, brown-yellow, honey, white with yellowish or pinkish layers. |
| Shine | Glass |
| Transparency | Translucent to a depth of 3-4 cm |
| Hardness | 6—7 |
| Cleavage | Absent |
| Kink | Conchoidal |
| Density | 2.65—2.667 g/cm³ |
Place of extraction
Onyx is widespread on the planet. The most beautiful specimens are mined in Uruguay, Brazil, India, and Arabia. Australia and the USA have rich deposits. In Russia there are many gems in Chukotka, Kolyma, and Primorye. Raw materials for industrial purposes are mined in Turkey, Mexico, Iran, Afghanistan, Egypt, and Pakistan.
The most famous are the Karlyuk and Kap-Kotan cave deposits in Turkmenistan. The halls and galleries are lined with mineral. Onyx stalactites and stalagmites formed in Cap Cotan.
Varieties and colors
The characteristic by which onyx is identified is striping. In nature there are monochromatic specimens. The types of stone are classified according to the description.
Varieties
Varieties of stone are created by alternating stripes of color:
- sardonyx - brown and red, red and orange or brown and white;
Sardonyx - Arabic - a thick black stone with barely noticeable white stripes;
Arabic onyx - carnelian - red and white stripes;
Onyx carnelian - chalcedony - gray and white;
Chaldecone onyx - tricolor - white, brown-red, blue.
Tricolor onyx
There are different examples:
- onyx agate - gray with small fragments;
Onyx agate - marble - full green range;
Marble onyx - ordinary - the main shade (yellow, pink, beige or blue) with slightly lighter or darker stripes to match.
Ordinary onyx
Onyx is mistaken for agate. However, in onyx, multi-colored layers form clear parallel lines on the cut. Agate has soft, vague patterns. It is matte and lighter.
Onyx is chalcedony quartz. Many people associate moonstone, which resembles chalcedony, with its translucent varieties.
Colors
Common colors of natural onyx are blue, greenish, brown or pink. The white stone is not pure, but pale aquamarine or tea rose color.
The rarest and most expensive are completely black stones. Next come white, red, green specimens.
Onyx price and preferred time to purchase
Most often, the price is determined by the type of stone, but according to this indicator, onyxes are more affordable compared to other precious stones. White and black minerals are considered the most expensive, since they are rare and imported from Arab countries.
Bright, variegated stones with thin stripes are not cheap and are prized by collectors. The final cost is influenced by the precious frame. The price varies from 1,000 to 20,000 rubles. depending on the type of product.
It is recommended to purchase Onyx on the 5th lunar day, and start wearing it on the 19th. It is better to buy carnelian on the 3rd and 17th, and sardonyx on the 10th and 24th lunar days.
Artificial onyx
Artificial onyx is obtained by two methods:
- Chemical dyes and substances are pumped into the cheap variety of agate. The pebble looks natural, but fades or fades over time.
- "An honest imitation." A polymer that closely resembles natural stone. Popular as a decorative interior decoration, material for countertops or mantelpieces.
Imitations of stone can be easily distinguished from the original by their cheapness or rich tones.
How to spot a fake
Knowing what onyx looks like, you can easily identify a fake:
- Real stone has calm, not very bright colors;
- the natural mineral is quite durable - if there are a lot of scratches on the stone, it may well be a fake;
- it is important to pay attention not only to quality, but also to price - the stone is fairly accessible and inexpensive;
- natural minerals do not conduct heat well - that is, they will take a long time to warm up in your hands.
These tips will help you avoid making mistakes, but they do not provide a complete guarantee. If you don’t trust yourself, you’re not sure that you’ll figure everything out, then call a specialist. Who else, if not he, can distinguish artificial onyx from a natural gem.
Medicinal properties
The healing properties of natural onyx have been used for centuries. The stone, its powder and water infused with onyx help:
- the wound will heal faster if you sprinkle it with onyx powder;
- powder is used to treat the oral cavity;
- Water infused with crushed minerals is drunk to improve metabolism or lose weight.
The decoration with the stone is placed at the level of the problem area:
- eyes, ears - earrings with marble stone;
- arthritis - bracelet;
- heart - pendant in red shades;
- therapeutic massage - an onyx egg is used, and the sore spot is lightly pressed with a stone every day.
In a house lined with onyx slabs, people feel healthier.
Onyx is a talisman that resists diseases:
- headache or migraine;
- fever or inflammation;
- stuttering (black stone);
- potency (for men you need red-striped);
- absent-mindedness;
- rheumatism, cardiovascular diseases, asthma or oncology;
- colic, kidney pain or liver disease.
Black onyx
The properties of natural stone harmonize the functioning of organs, improving the human condition. The gem fights laziness, fatigue, restores a positive attitude and drives away gloomy thoughts. Prevents drug addiction or alcoholism. The thicker the stripes, the more powerful the magical properties of such onyx.
Green onyx rejuvenates the body, strengthens the immune system or helps overcome fatigue.
Only natural stone has healing natural properties.
How to distinguish a fake?
Most often it is black onyx that is counterfeited, but other types are not protected from counterfeiting. These fakes are made either by cutting cheaper stones or by creating replicas out of glass or plastic.
Differences between onyx and fake:
- natural stone is highly durable; if you run a needle over it, no marks will remain;
- if you put onyx in sour wine, it will not tarnish;
- There are no single-color onyxes; in any case, straight and parallel stripes of layers should be visible;
- the stone is translucent for several centimeters, so the original will be translucent;
- onyx is heavier in mass than polymer or other similar stones.
Real onyx can become a faithful companion and a useful amulet for life. In order for the stone to fully demonstrate its magical and healing properties, you need to choose onyx in accordance with your zodiac sign, and also give it time to get used to its new owner. In this case, the stone will bring health, success and harmony, and will help in difficult life situations.
Magic properties
All varieties have magical properties. The stone helps strong people who are not afraid to take responsibility. The best option for a talisman and amulet for commanders, emergency workers, teachers or leaders in other areas.
To attract good luck, find a way out of a hopeless situation or strengthen willpower, it is enough to wear a ring.
Overall Impact
The meaning of a stone for a person is multifaceted:
- improves memory, develops logic, intelligence;
- helps to complete the task;
- activates or develops talents;
- helps to become a speaker (beads on the neck or a small stone under the tongue);
- strengthens self-confidence;
- helps to gain the authority of others.
The stone makes the owner wise, purposeful, resilient and courageous. Suitable for young, hot-headed people: they will assess the situation and act calmly.
Natural blue onyx beads
For older people, the stone gives peace, health, and does not allow them to become despondent.
Color Specialization
The magical properties of natural onyx are determined by the variety.
Green
Protects the family hearth, prevents domestic quarrels or conflicts. The gem is useful for newlyweds or those who have been in a long marriage. The most powerful family guards are rings or beads. The mineral restores mental balance and tranquility. A pyramid or ball is an attribute of fans of esotericism. It is an energy accumulator or an activator of the owner’s dormant capabilities.
Yellow
The gem is the patron saint of people prone to depression. A beautiful thing in the color of the sun will make the atmosphere of the room bright and cozy.
Marble
Guardian of marital fidelity, an appropriate wedding gift. The mineral is suitable for choleric people as a stabilizer of the nervous system.
White
The most powerful energy drink of the “family”, it protects against all negativity and allows you to achieve success.
White onyx earrings
The stone makes the owner “invisible” to unpleasant or dangerous people. A suitable talisman for people with low self-esteem. Worn as a pendant at the level of the solar plexus or as a ring. A good gift for women before appointment to a high position.
Black
Amulet number one against witchcraft and a magic shield. Helps to survive loss or overcome fear (including death).
Due to its aggressive energy, the black mineral can become a strong amulet only for strong-willed individuals. For example, entrepreneurs or those wishing to become one. However, he will not allow you to drown in greed, maintaining sober thinking.
Traditionally, black onyx is considered a “masculine” stone, but it is also suitable for strong-willed ladies.
During the session, the gem will help students cope with anxiety and answer without hesitation. A useful gift for graduation from school: the child will go to university, study well, and make a career.
Talismans
The power of onyx will be nearby if you have miniature things or stone figurines with you:
- Pyramid or apple. A godsend for sick people. The gem is applied to the problem area, and after a few weeks an improvement is felt.
- Fish. Attribute of careerists: attracts good luck, high earnings, will help you pass an exam or win a casting.
- Dishes. Plates, glasses, glasses are an excellent family purchase. Enhance the taste of food or drinks.
- Ring with black onyx. Talisman for businessmen: helps to establish connections and avoid losses. The rest will be more confident with this decoration, increase their self-esteem or get rid of old psychological traumas.
The magical properties of the stone are enhanced in silver. Gold awakens leadership qualities. For people eager to achieve career heights in a dishonest way, the stone is useless.
Onyx is recommended to be worn by people in dangerous professions or people speaking in public.
Any object made of stone will protect your home from robbers or destruction.
Earth Magic - the meaning of onyx stones for Taurus, Capricorn and Virgo
Onyx is ideal for representatives of absolutely all earth signs - it is an excellent amulet for stable, self-confident pragmatists who stubbornly move towards their goal. Unfortunately, along the path of life they may be faced with “emotional traps”, in which the assistance of a special talisman will prove invaluable. The mineral of winners, managers and leaders increases a person’s self-esteem, strengthens his self-confidence, allowing him to literally move mountains!
Taurus
For Taurus, onyx is recommended to be worn in silver - in this setting, the stone best influences a person’s intuition and gives a state of peace. The amulet will make the owner not only punchy, but also sensitive, pleasant in communication (this is what Taurus often lacks - they suffer from a lack of internal harmony even with external success). It is advisable to avoid the black variety of the mineral, because it only enhances the innate aggressiveness of the owner, forcing him to come into conflict even with those close to him.
Capricorn
But black onyx is very good for a Capricorn man - the meaning of the talisman is to neutralize the machinations of enemies, whom these inflexible innovators manage to make much more actively than friends. Representatives of the mentioned earth sign spend too much energy, and additional “feeding” will not hurt them. He is able to advise women on the right decision when choosing a life partner.
Virgo
Virgos are distinguished by their diligence - to the point of complete physical exhaustion, concentration - to the point of tediousness, accuracy - to the point of pedantry. It would seem that there are so many beautiful traits, but the path to success is literally strewn with thorns. Onyx in light shades (in particular, white) will protect its owners from excessive suspiciousness and banal bad luck, will drive away doubts, and “draw out” fears. Such an amulet is simply necessary for Virgos holding leadership positions - with its help, earthly workaholics will be able to wisely manage the team and their own emotions.
Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?
According to astrologers, the stone is suitable for strong personalities of the entire zodiac circle.
This is a universal mineral that improves positivity or nullifies negativity for any zodiac sign.
| Zodiac sign | Compatibility |
| Aries | +++ |
| Taurus | + |
| Twins | — |
| Cancer | + |
| a lion | + |
| Virgo | + |
| Scales | + |
| Skoripon | + |
| Sagittarius | + |
| Capricorn | +++ |
| Aquarius | + |
| Fish | + |
(“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated)
Compatibility with other stones
Combining magically powerful onyx with other gems requires caution. Current or potential leaders do not need amethyst, ruby or pearl. Gems will calm and relax the owner. But it is dangerous for a leader to “rest on his laurels.”
Silver ring with onyx
The Earth element stone is incompatible with fire minerals. Pavel Globa believes that energetically it conflicts with citrine.
Questions/Answers
Ask - we will look for answers.
How to distinguish a fake?
- They began to imitate (fake) onyx a very long time ago. Tinted glass was used for this.
- They do the same now. In the worst case, this is glass; better fakes are made from tinted agate. High-quality imitations are made from polymer materials.
- We check the gem for thermal conductivity. Natural stone is cold, plastic heats up quickly.
- The color of natural onyx is delicate; fakes suffer from excessive color saturation.
Please note: if after several cleanings the decoration has faded or the design has become less expressive, there is reason to be sad.
Not onyx in decoration, but a vulgar fake. How to care?
Keep the jewelry in a separate case (onyx is easy to scratch).
Wash the contaminated stone with a weak soap solution with a napkin or soft brush. The soap is washed off with clean water and wiped thoroughly with a napkin.
The jeweler will help restore the stone to its former shine using special products.
Who should wear it?
- To old people. The stone will help you be more energetic, get sick less, and enjoy life more.
- For those whose profession is associated with danger (especially firefighters).
- Lawyers, politicians, lecturers - those who must convince the audience.
How to wear?
- In a ring, onyx awakens one from laziness, in earrings it makes a person enterprising and cheerful.
- Actively works in beads, hryvnias, pendants.
- The magical properties are enhanced if the jewelry is set in silver.
Note: it is better to wear an onyx ring on the middle finger.
What is the price?
The more varied and thinner the stripes on a gem, the more valuable it is.
Let's visit the Crafts Fair.
- A cute set of three tea tables. The base and legs are brass casting, the tabletops are made of marble onyx. And the price for all the beauty is small, only 46,000 rubles.
- Beads for handmade. The size, cut and color are varied. Price from 2 to 130 rubles per bead.
- An onyx pendant framed in leather will appeal to representatives of youth subcultures.
- Silver rings for men, with onyxes. Price from 26,000 to 56,000 rubles.
- A variety of druzy cabochons made of onyx.
- Cute elephants for good luck, from 2660 to 3170 rubles.
- Candlesticks, boxes, balls... It’s interesting to just wander through the pages and admire the work of the masters.
What colors are there?
The most diverse.
- White with yellow or pink layers.
- Brown, and the stripes are white, light, yellowish, brownish.
- Orange, red-brown with yellow, honey stripes.
- Dark red with pink, brown, yellowish stripes.
There are countless options.
Where can I buy?
Jewelry salons, large online platforms, shops. Stone exhibitions and fairs.
What stones does it go with?
Makes friends with agate and carnelian.
“Won’t get along well” with chrysoprase, aventurine, hyacinth.
What is Cameo Gonzaga?
The Hermitage houses a unique gem on a sardonyx - “Cameo Gonzaga” Size 15.7x11.8 cm, the cameo depicts the Egyptian king Ptolemy II and his sister Arsinoe. This is an amazing portrait gem. It was the property of the Dukes of Gonzaga in Mantua (Italy). Before she ended up in France, she passed through many owners. As a result, the cameo was purchased for 1.5 million francs by Josephine Beauharnais, Napoleon's wife. In 1814, she presented it to the Russian Emperor Alexander I as a token of gratitude for the generosity shown to her after the victory over Napoleon.
Artist's opinion: the great Rubens said “I believe that among gems with paired portraits, this is the most beautiful in Europe.”
Whose nail is onyx?
There is a legend about one of Eros' pranks. This, if anyone has forgotten, is the god of love in ancient Greek mythology. Curly-haired winged baby with a bow and arrow. Whoever the arrow hits will fall in love.
So about the legend. Aphrodite loved bright manicures. For the goddess of love, this is probably forgivable. Cupid, a child unencumbered by education, shot arrows in all directions. And one day he shot so accurately that he cut off his entire manicure (nails) with the arrow. They fell to the ground and turned into onyx stone.
Something alarmed me about the goddess’s manicure. I turned to a historian for advice (one of the authors of the book “Myths of Ancient Greece. Gods”). As for nails: in the times of the ancient Greeks there was varnish (the one with which all sorts of vases were painted). There were thin files. There was hair dye. So the historian said: it’s unlikely, but such a legend could exist.
And the book is interesting. In general, I like this duet of authors - V. Ivanov and O. Kolobova. Their books are wonderful, a huge amount of information is presented so easily, with such humor that you don’t notice that the book has already been read.
Where can you see cameos?
Unique collections of antique gems include:
- Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum.
- Paris Cabinet of Medals.
- Berlin State Museums.
- Hermitage in St. Petersburg. The collection of this museum includes about 20 thousand cameos and intaglios.
Where is it used?
The attractive mineral is used in areas that decorate life - jewelry, design and arts and crafts.
Jewelry
Its strength has made the gem a material for jewelry of all types: bracelets, rings, necklaces, brooches, cufflinks.
Natural onyx stone is beautiful in its original form; jewelers put a minimum of effort into creating cabochon inserts.
Decor
Everything is made from stone: from figurines to facing panels.
Utilitarian and aesthetic functions in the interior combine:
- tableware (wine glasses, dishes, bowls);
- candlesticks;
- caskets;
- lampshades, lamps;
- ashtrays;
- stands for stationery sets;
- countertops.
Chess made from dark and light varieties of the mineral is not a shame to present to the most discerning fan of the game.
Onyx chess
Residential, public, and office spaces become elegant with wall panels, mosaics, and stained glass windows made of stone. Especially if lighting is mounted behind the onyx slab. It can even be created in a bathhouse or swimming pool.
Price
Onyx is a semi-precious or ornamental stone. Even jewelry pieces are valued in grams (not carats); ornamental materials are counted in kilograms.
The price is determined by the type of stone, but is always available.
The most expensive black and white onyx: rare because they are mined only in Arab countries. They go for jewelry. Variegated stones are valuable: the brighter and more varied the palette, the finer the stripes, the better.
The cost of onyx jewelry is more influenced by the precious setting or expensive gems:
- with white or yellow metal – up to 1 thousand rubles;
- 925 silver – 3–5 thousand rubles;
- premium segment (gold, diamonds, black onyx) - 13–17 thousand rubles.
The material for cladding is assessed according to the dimensions of the product and the type of stone:
- slab 18 mm thick - $400/m2;
- agate raw materials - from 100 rubles/kg;
- marble material - from 50 rub./kg.
Onyx tabletop
For a tabletop they ask from 10 thousand rubles. The average price of onyx tumbling is 10 rubles. per gram.
Areas of use
Striped crystal is used in many ways to beautify life. The strength of the stone allows you to make almost any jewelry from it: pendants, rings, bracelets, earrings.
Gem decor elements look extravagant and perfectly complement any interior.
They also make products of larger formats: figurines, boxes, candlesticks, writing sets, ashtrays, table clocks, lamps, vases.
Exotic lovers will love onyx glasses. Such glasses will not be transparent like glass glasses, which means you will not be able to enjoy the way the reflections of light play in the wine. But your friends will definitely remember this visit.
How to wear and care
The beautiful gem, like most of its fellows, is picky about people. He needs to first “scan” the energy of the new owner and get used to it. Compatibility is checked as standard for precious minerals: the stone is held in the hands. The feeling of comfort means that you can wear jewelry as much as you want. Worry is a warning: you will have to pay an exorbitant price for the protection of the stone.
Black onyx bracelet
The magical mineral onyx works better when worn constantly. But even if it suits the horoscope, with long contact it can “whisper” to the owner a desire to get rich at any cost. If a person’s character has become tougher, the jewelry with the stone is temporarily removed.
- To enhance the magic of the gem, it is worn in the solar plexus area or on the index finger of the main hand.
- Onyx is a cold stone, so it is appropriate in winter, early spring or chilly autumn.
- The effect of the mineral is strongest on people from middle age.
The gem is not picky when storing: a spacious box is enough so that the stones do not rub. Clean the stone with a medium-hard toothbrush in soapy water. If there is more than one onyx in the decoration, add baking soda. You can rub the insert with bread crumbs.
The mineral is not afraid of heat, but in bright light it discolors to gray.
The stone absorbs negativity, but only shares positive energy with the owner. Therefore, it is periodically cleaned under running cold water and recharged with moonlight.
Caring for stone products
Products made from onyx do not require special care from their owner, but you still need to know how to maintain the beauty of the stone:
- The mineral can damage less durable minerals. It is better to put it in a separate box or bag. Don't want to spend that much? Well then, just wrap it in a scarf or napkin.
- Even if you wash your jewelry often, dust, dirt, and pieces of soap will still clog into the recesses that are present on them. Take a toothbrush and thoroughly clean the talisman, and then rinse with warm water.
The stone is not afraid of sudden changes in temperature, but does not like bright sun. Being exposed to sunlight for a long time causes it to lose color. So it is better to take care of the gem, because by nature its color is not very bright.
