Onyx
Deep Black, Sharp Contrast
Onyx delivers a dense black presence that sharpens silhouettes and highlights metalwork. It is a classic choice for clean, graphic jewelry that feels both modern and timeless. The stone's even tone makes it especially effective in symbolic pendants.
Cultural Meanings
Onyx was widely used for intaglios and cameos in ancient Rome and later Europe because of its clean polish and layered structure. Black material became especially popular in Victorian jewelry.
Stone Profile
ColorBlack to black-and-white banded chalcedony
TransparencyOpaque to translucent at thin edges
LuminescenceUsually inert
Varieties
Main OriginsBrazil, India, Madagascar, Mexico, Uruguay
Mineral Facts
- 1Onyx is a banded variety of chalcedony within the quartz family.
- 2High-polish black onyx has been a signature material in Art Deco design.
- 3Some black onyx in trade is enhanced chalcedony, so disclosure matters.
