In the recent past, the well-being of a home was assessed by the presence of carpets on the walls, scarce products and, of course, crystal items. Today, the main place in the sideboard is rightfully occupied by onyx dishes. These are beautiful and original tableware, indicating the refined taste of its owner. In addition, onyx has a number of properties that will help solve health problems, strengthen the family and help in business. It’s not for nothing that in most countries this stone is revered, considering it magical.
Physical properties
Onyx is a combination of agate and carbonate. In the stone, these minerals are arranged in layers, due to which the agate acquires a striped color. Like all quartz, it has a high hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale. The stone can be either translucent or opaque. It has a white streak and a pronounced glassy sheen. Onyx has no cleavage.
Onyx color range
The color range of the mineral varies from pale green to black. The most valuable stones are mined on the Arabian Peninsula, Brazil and the Russian Federation (Chukotka).
Healing stone
In ancient times, healers never failed to pay attention to healing onyx. The mineral powder was added to medicinal products intended to heal damage to the oral cavity. Magic stones were applied to skin wounds, ensuring their rapid healing. Water infused with onyx was charged with the powerful energy of the mineral and treated people from various diseases.
In modern lithotherapy, the following properties are attributed to the mineral:
- Has a beneficial effect on the condition and functioning of the brain. Energy allows you to recover from hypoxia, signs of dementia, migraines and cerebral atherosclerosis.
- In case of urolithiasis, it helps to get rid of renal colic, especially if you apply the talisman to the place where the pain is felt.
- At high body temperature, the indicator returns to normal.
- Useful for people suffering from rheumatism.
- The healing properties will be useful for men suffering from prostate inflammation.
- It is believed that it helps reduce the size of malignant tumors.
- Necessary for people with weakened immunity, which has a beneficial effect.
- Sharpens vision and hearing. For this purpose, the stone is worn in the form of earrings.
The mineral symbolizes good health and longevity, so it is useful for both young and old people to wear it.
After lithotherapy sessions, it is recommended to wash chalcedony under running water, which will renew the energy of the mineral.
Onyx beads
Utensils made of onyx stone and its features
Onyx is actively used in the manufacture of tableware, coffee and tea sets. There are also vases for sweets and fruits, sugar bowls, and beer glasses. A number of properties make all products special.
Practical
Plasticity facilitates the production of all sorts of unusual shapes. Has a beautiful appearance. Thanks to this, it creates a pleasant atmosphere. Heat resistance allows it to be used for serving hot dishes. However, you should not cook or reheat in such a container.
It does not absorb liquid at all, but does not interfere with air circulation. Drinks last a long time and become even tastier over time.
Magical
Since ancient times, many people have believed in the magical abilities of the stone. Many famous personalities keep products as a talisman. The gem helps cleanse energy and completely eliminates negative influences. It will create harmony in the family, help in relationships with loved ones and at work. Magicians believe that the mineral can relieve loneliness. An onyx glass can benefit men. It will eliminate uncertainty and give you strength of spirit. Older people will experience joy and optimism. Incapable of causing harm.
Healing
In addition to aesthetics and magic, it has healing properties. Hippocrates spoke very highly of the stone. With its help it is possible to cure gastritis, ulcers, and intestines. Has a positive effect on the kidneys. Constantly drinking water in an onyx container will help you get rid of excess weight. It will relieve depression and headaches, improve sleep, and moderate appetite. Jewelry made from the mineral has a beneficial effect on the nervous system. For older people it acts as a sedative. Relieves anxiety and nervousness. Returns vigor and good mood.
Magic properties
Onyx has always been considered a masculine stone, so it symbolizes courage and physical endurance. All kings, leaders and emperors had jewelry made of onyx, since the energy of the stone protected them from rash actions and misfortunes. There was a belief that onyx clears a person’s mind of disturbing thoughts and helps develop self-confidence.
The gem symbolizes eloquence, which is why famous orators always carried it in the form of beads. If a person constantly carries onyx products with him, then he can be sure: the stone will protect him from all kinds of troubles, violent death and material losses. The aura of onyx protects a person from the effects of black magic.
A gem talisman will give your home reliable protection from any ill-wishers. The magical properties of the mineral strengthen family ties.
There is an opinion that the magic and properties of onyx depend entirely on the color scheme of the mineral.
Marble onyx in Russia and CIS countries
In the Russian Federation, there are very few explored reserves of marble onyx: “The balance of reserves is colored stones”, two deposits are registered - Tsagankhodinskoye in the Irkutsk region, Tumuldurskoye in the Republic of Sakha with total reserves of about 280 cubic meters. The second deposit is periodically developed by the State Enterprise "Vostokquartz Samotsvety".
Recently, black marble onyx was found on the territory of the Republic. Tatarstan. However, it is unrealistic to consider this find as a prerequisite for the possible discovery of a deposit here. In the Saratov region, during the development of the Berezovsky dolomite deposit, small lenses of golden-brown aragonite are occasionally encountered, but the content of this stone in the host rock is so small that it is technically impossible to organize industrial production of aragonite here.
Considering the gigantic territory of Russia, we can assume that in its vast expanses there are strata deposits of onyx and are waiting in the wings to be discovered and explored by geologists. In the meantime, Russia buys marble onyx from Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey and quite successfully uses it in modern architecture. A number of Russian companies that have studied this material well (New Stone, Fiviams, etc.) have mastered not only the peculiarities of trade, but also all the subtleties of using onyx and are actively working in the domestic market.
Among the CIS countries, Armenia has the largest reserves of marble onyx: the Agamzalinskoye deposit in the Ararat region with reserves of 528 thousand cubic meters. has been in use since ancient times. Milky-white, greenish-white and yellowish-brown onyx from this deposit was used not only for souvenirs, but also as a facing material (a typical example is the stained glass windows made from this onyx in the underground lobby of the Moscow metro station "Dynamo"). Unfortunately, at present, due to severe fracturing of the massif, this deposit is not being developed.
Application of stone
Onyx is a semi-precious stone belonging to the third group. List of mineral applications:
- Construction: In ancient times, large stones were used in the construction of temples. Valuable specimens were used to make facing tiles.
- Decorative items: onyx is a valuable raw material for the manufacture of candlesticks, ashtrays, animal figurines, vases, glasses and other souvenirs.
- Jewelry: expensive jewelry is made from onyx and this stone is used as inserts in silver jewelry.
Onyx is an inexpensive stone, products from which are available to most.
Onyx glasses
Onyx deposits
Onyx is mined in several countries. For example, especially valuable specimens are supplied from Brazil, India, and Uruguay. In Russia, the mineral is mined in the Primorsky Territory, Kolyma and Chukotka.
In Turkmenistan there are caves in which the floor and walls are covered with onyx. Rich deposits of this stone are also located in Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, Iran, and Mexico.
Cave onyx.
Varieties and colors
This type of quartz is represented by a rich palette of different colors, depending on which different types of onyx are distinguished:
- Sardonyx: The stone is characterized by alternating white and brown stripes of equal thickness. In lithotherapy it symbolizes calm and serenity.
- White: the mineral has a delicate aquamarine hue. It is considered a rare variety of onyx. Symbolizes purity and honesty.
- Arabic (Black): The value of this gem is equal to that of most gemstones, since black onyx is very rare in nature.
- Carnelian (carnelian): the color range of the stone varies from orange to burgundy brown. The stone is considered a powerful love talisman.
- Marble: is a combination of light green and white stripes. Known as a powerful talisman for healing the nervous system.
Product prices
The cost of products depends on the size, design and quality of the stones. The price of jewelry is also affected by the frame. We have already said that the black gem is valued most highly. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to find natural stones of this shade; most samples are tinted. Specimens with thin stripes are expensive.
The price for small processed semi-precious stones (about 3-4 cm in diameter, weighing 10-20 g) ranges from 200-300 rubles. Samples of 200-400 g will cost 3000-5000 rubles. A rare translucent moonstone, black onyx can be valued at up to 6000-7000 rubles per 100-200 grams. Pakistani onyx of different colors is sold inexpensively.
Dishes can cost from 800 to 10,000 rubles or more. For example, wine glasses can be bought for 1500-3000 rubles apiece. A glass will cost 600-800 rubles, a plate – 1000-2000 rubles. The dishes will cost a little less if you buy them in a set. Stone boxes and an ashtray, depending on the size, can cost 3,000-9,000 rubles. Various figures (for example, an elephant, a turtle, a flower) - from 800 to 3000 rubles.
Jewelry is most often made from white, black, and pink gems, but other types are also used. Yellow onyx is set in silver, and black Arabic is set in gold. Costume jewelry also looks good - minerals set in bronze, cupronickel, TsAM.
A gold ring, ring or earrings with such a stone cost 10,000-15,000 rubles. Silver jewelry – 3000-7000 rubles. A bracelet can be bought for 3000-4000 rubles if it is made only of stones. Gold will cost about 10,000-12,000 rubles, silver – 2 times less. Onyx beads can be purchased for 2000-3000 rubles, necklaces - for 4000-6000 rubles.
How to recognize a fake?
Onyx, despite its cheapness and availability, is often counterfeited and sold to the buyer by an unscrupulous seller as a real mineral. In order not to make a mistake when purchasing products made from this gem, you need to know about some of its features:
- A natural gem has a harmonious color scheme and pattern, while a fake has sharp color transitions, and its layers can be crooked when viewed through a magnifying glass.
- Due to its high hardness, onyx cannot be scratched by the tip of a needle or knife. The stone itself can easily leave a scratch on the glass.
- Natural stone does not conduct heat, so it will always remain cold in your hand.
Natural onyx retains color fastness under any influence, while fake stones fade or become discolored.
How to wear onyx
When purchasing a stone, it is recommended to establish energetic contact with it, as with a living being. To do this, you should hold it in your hands for a while. If the sensations are pleasant, then this is a signal of good compatibility. If you experience discomfort, it is better not to purchase the stone.
Onyx can be worn constantly or periodically - you need to focus on your well-being. This is a cold mineral, and it feels most comfortable in the cold season.
The stone has a strong influence on middle-aged and older people, to whom it gives beneficial energy. However, it should be borne in mind that when worn for a long time, a person’s character may change: he may become tougher and intolerant. If these qualities have become clearly expressed, then it is better to remove all jewelry from yourself for a while.
The black mineral will influence your destiny.
Who does it match by zodiac sign and name?
Onyx is one of those stones whose magical properties are suitable for representatives of most zodiac signs. First of all, any type of it favors fire signs - Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. These people have a hot temper, and the energy of the gem allows them to concentrate their energy on achieving their goals. Onyx is also suitable:
- Taurus, Capricorn and Libra, they will receive a powerful charge of energy, allowing them to get rid of laziness.
- Aquarius and Virgo, who under the influence of the mineral will become more decisive.
- Arabic onyx suits Cancer and Scorpio.
- For Pisces, the stone will serve as a beautiful decoration, but not a talisman.
It is recommended for Geminis to refrain from wearing jewelry with onyx. These people prefer variety in all areas of life, and onyx is a symbol of constancy.
The names of the gem are Anton, Ruslan, Makar and Svetlana.
Current state.
From the information provided, it is clear that marble onyxes are found almost all over the world, however, the vast majority of deposits and manifestations of this stone, due to its genesis, are small-block and fissured. Which makes their development economically unjustified. Today. Essentially. Only six countries (Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, Mexico and Egypt) have onyx resources. Allowing its extraction on an industrial scale. The listed countries have reservoir-type deposits that are most suitable for efficient development (in some deposits in Iran, Pakistan and Mexico, the volume of mined onyx blocks reaches 5-6 cubic meters)
It is not possible to determine the existing time with any accuracy, because Most countries that have this stone do not publish information about its reserves. Estimated (with a very large approximation), it can be assumed that the volume of global onyx reserves, covered by varying degrees of geological radiation, is at the level of 6-7 million m.
In Iran, the main developments of marble onyx are concentrated in the provinces of Mahalat, Carmen, etc. In the province of Mahalat, large-block onyx of a milky white color with yellow veins of the “white onyx” variety, as well as brownish-yellow “arco iris” are mined. In the province of Carmen, in the Tibriz region and other areas, there are quarries for the extraction of green onyx “green onyx” and “emerald”; The onyx mined here is light to dark green in color and has a mottled pattern, sometimes enlivened by brownish-beige veins. The resources of Iranian onyx exceed 1 billion cubic meters, the annual level of block production is in the range of 40-50 thousand cubic meters. Onyx blocks and blanks are exported to many countries, incl. to Italy, Malaysia, Taiwan, UAE, India, Japan.
In Pakistan, deposits of marble onyx are located in the northern part of the Beljistan desert (Chagai and Peshewar regions), along the border with Iran and Afghanistan. The origin of these onyxes is associated with volcanic activity of the Pleistocene era. Among the most significant deposits are: Mashki Chan West (green and dark green with a banded-veined pattern), Zeh (green and yellowish-green, spotted-banded), Chilgami (green, sometimes yellow, spotted).
In the Karso region, green banded onyx "patlkok" is being developed. And in the Azarshar and Marakwa regions there is pink spotted onyx. Pakistani onyx reserves amount to 0.8-1.0 million cubic meters, the annual production level is up to 20 thousand cubic meters. A significant part of onyx in the form of blocks and slabs is exported to Italy, China, Spain, the USA and other countries.
In Turkey, marble onyx is found in almost all regions. In the central part of the country. On the Anatolian Plateau, large reserves of onyx (yellow-brown with light green veins) have been identified in the Karakochan Elazit region, as well as near the city. Karsa, Pyulyumyura, Terkana, Askale. In the western part of the plateau (region of Chal. Gazlig, Afyon) white and yellow onyx are mined; 100 km. from Izmir (Ahisar-Manisa region) - green and yellow-green onyx “akhisar” and “demirsi green”. And near the city of Balikesir there is the honey variety “honigonyx”, the pink variety “hony rose” and the brown spotted variety “asena” or “brown onyx”.
In the area of the city of Eskisehir, large-block spotted-striped onyx of yellow, beige and green colors “Junus emre” is mined. In the south of the country (Akdeniz region), onyx deposits have been identified in the areas of the city. Antalya, Varsak, Feke, Tufanbeyli and Saimbeyli. In the north (Karadeniz region), onyx is mined in small quantities in the Bolu region. It should be noted that the development of marble onyx resources in Turkey is low: the total volume of production of this stone does not exceed 2-3 thousand cubic meters. in year. Turkish onyx in the form of blocks, slabs and other products is exported to Syria, China, Taiwan, Italy, Spain and other countries.
In Afghanistan, explored deposits of marble onyx and aragonite are concentrated mainly in Helmand province. The largest in terms of reserves, the Sukalog field (2,350 thousand cubic meters) is represented by green veined-banded material. At the Zoldak field with reserves of 215 thousand cubic meters. There are yellowish-green and light green varieties with spotted-banded material; at the Malikdukan deposit (240 thousand cubic meters) there are green and yellow varieties. The Panavuk deposit (370 thousand cubic meters) is represented by onyxes of light green, white, beige and brown colors with a striped pattern. Green banded onyxes and aragonites are also found in the provinces of Herat and Slin Buldak. It should be noted, however, that due to the political situation in the country, the development of Afghan onyx is not currently taking place.
Mexico is rich in deposits of high-quality marble onyx, most of which are located in the southern part of the country, in the state of Oaxaca. The green spotted-banded varieties “verde oaxaka” and the pink spotted varieties “oaxaka rosato” are developed here. The deposit is large-block. 150 km. from the Mexican capital, in the state of Puebla, there is a deposit of yellowish-green and beige onyx “marmol tecali”, which has been developed for a long time. Yellow spotted onyxes are also found in the Simulco area. Deposits of milky-white and yellowish-white onyxes are located in the area. Tenakan and Rogiso. Production volumes in the country are small - no more than 2 thousand cubic meters. blocks per year. The largest amount of onyx is exported to the USA.
Egypt, famous in the distant past for its development of onyx, currently occupies a very modest place among the main producers of this material. The best known is the honey variety, mined in the Aswan area and marketed under the commercial name “onice egiziano”.
Let us briefly look at modern technology for the production of materials and products from onyx marble. In principle, it is no different from the existing technology for extracting and processing marble. When extracting blocks from reservoir-type deposits, diamond wire saws are widely used; blocks are cut on diamond-strip or diamond-disk orthogonal machines, and subsequent processing of the workpieces is done on appropriate grinding-polishing and milling-edging equipment. A significant part of products made from marble onyx has a complex shape; such products are manufactured on multi-axis diamond wire machines and complex-profile processing centers. Taking into account the fracturing of certain types of onyx, the technological process of its processing includes reinforcement operations performed after sawing.
Proper care
Today, onyxes of various colors are found as inserts in silver jewelry. The stone is combined with this precious metal not only in terms of cost, but also in terms of energy potential. Jewelry with white and black stones will be more expensive than those encrusted with brighter gems.
In order for stone products to preserve their beauty and healing energy for a long time, it is recommended to properly care for them. And to prevent the mineral from deteriorating from scratches and chips, it is advisable to store it separately from other jewelry, using velvet bags. It is also necessary to protect from contact with any chemicals.
To clean onyx, use a weakly concentrated soap solution and a soft brush. After washing, the remaining soap is washed off with running water.
It is recommended to buy chalcedony products in large jewelry stores. If a person purchases products on the market or on unfamiliar Internet resources, he runs the risk of buying a fake. But, using the information on how to choose the right stone, you will receive a delicate and magically powerful decoration with onyx.
Physico-mechanical and technological properties.
The physical and mechanical properties of onyx marble are generally similar to those of most fine-grained marbles: the average density (volumetric mass) is 2700-2900 kg/cub.m.; water absorption - 0.1-0.3%; porosity - 0.3-0.95%; compressive strength - 50-110 MPa; abrasion - 1.0-1.9 g/sq.m. cm. These indicators make it possible to use onyx in the same wide area as the best varieties of marble.
Many varieties of marble onyx have high frost resistance, but this elite material has not been used for exterior cladding of buildings in European architecture (single cases can be found in the USA and the Middle East).
Considering the technological properties of marble onyx, it should be noted their relatively easy workability, the ability to “hold” an edge during milling and processing (due to cracking) - in modern production processes this is overcome by reinforcing products on their back side. Given the good translucency of marble onyx, transparent adhesives and fiberglass or sheet glass are used for their formation. When covering walls (with mortar or adhesive compositions), you should not get carried away with thin onyx slabs (especially if the onyx is light in color): material installed on the wall with a thickness of less than 20-30 mm will lose its depth and will partially take on the texture and shades of the underlying layer.
