Onyx Meaning, Crystal Healing Properties, Uses, Facts, and History

Onyx Meaning, Crystal Healing Properties, Uses, Facts, and History

Black Onyx Crystal Natural Gemstone Freeform Tumbled Stone | Multiple Sizes

Onyx Meaning Crystal Healing, History, Uses, and Properties

A complete guide for the powerful Onyx crystal stone.


History of the Stone

Onyx Across Cultures: Reputation and Symbolism

But the story of onyx doesn't stop at craftiness and cameos. This stone had a reputation (for better or worse) in many cultures, and folks really had opinions about it.

Take China, for example. Onyx wasn’t always the gem of choice—actually, it was the exact opposite. People believed coming into contact with onyx might bring a streak of bad luck, and it wasn’t something you’d want lying around the house. Contrast that with the ancient Indians, who didn’t shy away from the stone. In India, onyx was considered a sort of good luck charm. It was credited with having protective properties and, in some cases, was thought to strengthen romantic partnerships. Talk about two sides of the same stone.

Victorian England had its own take. After Prince Albert died, Queen Victoria’s mourning attire included a fair bit of onyx—usually in the form of somber, statement jewelry. This set the tone for years: in Britain, onyx soon became tied to grief and mourning. Even the Arabic word for black onyx, el jaza, can be translated as “sadness,” nailing the point home that not all views on this stone were, well, rosy.

Yet, as with most things, perspectives can shift. Even in places that once feared onyx, it began popping up in more positive roles—think protective talisman, not doom-bringer. Some practitioners of Chinese Feng Shui eventually flipped the script, favoring onyx to ward off negative energy and bolster resilience.

So, whether the stone was seen as a harbinger of gloomy moods or a source of sturdy comfort really depended on which house—or which century—you happened to be born in.

How Does Onyx Form Geologically?

Alright, let’s talk rocks—specifically, how onyx actually shows up in the wild. Onyx isn’t your run-of-the-mill stone; it’s a member of the microcrystalline quartz family, meaning its little quartz crystals are so fine that you can barely spot them without a microscope (not exactly your typical countertop show-off).

Geologically, onyx likes to crash the party inside the cracks, veins, or airy pockets hiding in other rocks. Here’s the scene: mineral-rich solutions seep into these open spaces, and as the solution cools or slowly evaporates—voilà! Onyx begins to grow, forming its classic bands and layers.

But onyx has another dramatic side—it can also form inside lava. Volcanoes, always a bit extra, have bubbles and pockets left behind after gases escape during an eruption. Silica-rich solutions (think: a spa day for minerals) settle into these volcanic cavities. Over time, as things cool down, the onyx quietly crystallizes and fills in the spaces, just waiting to be scooped up centuries later by someone hoping to carve a brooch or cameo for the next Victorian revival.

Now, with all this geological glamour, it’s no wonder onyx has traveled from ancient cameos to modern crystal collections. Let’s dig into its particulars.

Telling Onyx Apart from Its Lookalikes

So, how do you pick out onyx from a pile of lookalike stones, say, something flashy like black obsidian? Well, it turns out Mother Nature left us a couple of cheat codes.

First, there's their natural heft. Onyx, being a variety of chalcedony, tends to feel heavier in the hand than obsidian, which is essentially volcanic glass (and surprisingly lightweight for its looks). Gently toss one into your palm compared to another, and you'll notice the difference.

But that's not all. Onyx often reveals layers—literally. If you take a closer look, you'll notice parallel bands or stripes of color running through it. Obsidian, by contrast, is usually more of a uniform glassy black, missing the trademark bands. These stripes are not just pretty; they're practically a signature.

So, next time you're at a market stall in Istanbul or scanning the family jewelry box, keep an eye out for those tell-tale bands and trusty weight. It's the difference between a cameo with history and just another shiny pebble.

What Sets Onyx Apart from Other Quartz Family Members?

Onyx is part of the quartz family, but it certainly marches to the beat of its own drum. While most people are familiar with the glitter of clear quartz, amethyst, or citrine—the big, crystalline showstoppers—onyx keeps things a little more mysterious.

Here’s where things get interesting: quartz can appear in two basic forms—macrocrystalline (think chunky, visible crystals) and microcrystalline (tiny crystals packed so closely you can’t see them without a microscope). Onyx belongs to the microcrystalline club, rubbing elbows with carnelian, jasper, and bloodstone. This makes it part of the larger chalcedony family—a subcategory of quartz known for its fine textures and waxy luster.

But just being chalcedony isn’t enough for onyx. What really separates onyx from its cousins is the way the colors line up. Onyx is known for its straight, parallel bands of contrasting colors—usually black, white, or deep brown. Compare this to agate, which is also a type of banded chalcedony, but its bands usually swirl in curves and waves, like marble cake gone wild. Some gem experts (looking at you, International Gem Society) prefer to keep onyx and agate in separate camps, while others claim the distinction is mostly about those signature bands.

The takeaway? Onyx stands out with its sharply defined, straight bands and classic color schemes, giving it a bold, graphic look that sets it apart even among the eclectic quartz crowd.

Onyx Colors

Onyx has natural contrasting colors, so it was an obvious choice for most carvers. It also looks good.

But not all onyx is the classic black-and-white you might picture. While pure black onyx seems to get all the attention, it’s actually the rarest form in nature. Most of the onyx used throughout history—and even today—comes in a surprising range of colors and patterns.

For example:

  • Sardonyx features light or dark brown bands, sometimes with a reddish or yellowish tinge.
  • Carnelian onyx boasts deep crimson red or red-orange bases.
  • Niccolo onyx stands out with a black base and nearly translucent, pale blue or gray bands.

The most common variety is sometimes called “Arabic onyx,” with a distinctive black layer topped by white—what some gemologists call “true” onyx. And, if you ever come across blue onyx, you’re just seeing another example of nature showing off its palette.

No wonder ancient artisans kept coming back to onyx: it offered a built-in canvas of color to play with, whether you wanted to carve a cameo or craft a bead.

Natural and Dyed Onyx Varieties

Onyx has natural contrasting colors, so it was an obvious choice for most carvers. It also looks good. The other interesting part about it is that apparently it was easy to make in terms of imitations. In other words, make artificial onyx. The practice isn't new, and the ancient Romans knew how to make some convincing fakes apparently. It could be dyed or "cemented together" as Pliny the Elder describes. If done properly, this could have been highly profitable. Indeed, Pliny claims that it was a type of fraud by which fortunes could be made and none could compare. Our methods of detecting artificial stones is way better than what the ancient Romans had, so it is unfortunate that a lot of these con artists got away with their misdeeds.

Natural and Dyed Varieties

While most people imagine onyx as a solid black stone, the truth is a bit more colorful—literally. Natural onyx comes in several varieties, and the solid black form is actually quite rare. In fact, many of those pure black stones you see in jewelry today are dyed to look that way. The ancients may have been masters of deception, but the tradition of “enhancing” onyx has stuck around.

Some of the most common naturally occurring types include:

  • Sardonyx: Recognized by its light or dark brown base, sometimes with reddish or yellowish-brown tones.
  • Carnelian Onyx: Distinguished by a rich, deep crimson red or red-orange base.
  • Niccolo Onyx: Features a black base with thin, almost translucent bands that can look light blue or gray.
  • Arabic Onyx: The classic black layer with a white top, which some gemologists refer to as “true” onyx.

In reality, most onyxes flaunt multiple vibrant colors, with bands of blue, brown, gray, white, or even red. These contrasting layers made them perfect for carving cameos, where the image seems to emerge from the stone itself.

But whether you’re looking at a Victorian brooch or a Roman ring, there’s always the possibility that what you’re holding was designed to trick the eye—and maybe even the wallet.

Value and Pricing of Onyx

For those curious about the going rates: Onyx remains one of the more budget-friendly stones out there, but its price does depend on a few things—namely, how it’s cut, its size, and whether it has received any treatments along the way.

If you’re eyeing faceted onyx stones (think rounds, ovals, or those fancy marquise shapes), expect prices generally to range anywhere from $1 to $11 per carat, with quality and size nudging the cost up or down. The simpler cabochons—those smooth, domed gems preferred for rings and beads—come in a bit lower, typically falling between $0.80 and $5 per carat.

As with most things in the jewelry world, the more intricate the workmanship or rare the untreated stone, the more you’ll pay. Carved pieces, in particular, can fetch higher prices, not so much for the material itself, but for the skill poured into them. Still, compared to precious stones or even other semi-precious varieties, onyx remains both accessible and stylish—ideal for both modern minimalism and the occasional Victorian revival.

How the Cut of Onyx Affects Its Value

Much like its more flamboyant gemstone cousins, onyx’s value is heavily influenced by the way it’s cut. While opaque stones generally find themselves shaped into cabochons or beads—think those smooth domes and tiny orbs you see on artisan bracelets—onyx is something of a show-off. Thanks to its durability and interesting luster, onyx can lend itself to a variety of cuts, including faceted shapes such as rounds, ovals, and even the occasional dramatic marquise.

But the real claim to onyx fame? That would be its long-standing tradition in the art of carving. The practice goes back to ancient Greece: carvers would transform onyx into detailed cameos and intaglios, sometimes featuring nobility or figures from myth. These carvings required significant craftsmanship, and the results could be quite stunning—not to mention valuable.

So how does the cut factor into price? Here’s the quick take:

  • Faceted onyx stones (with all those little sparkly surfaces) typically command higher prices than simple cabochons or beads, mostly due to the extra labor and skill involved.
  • Carved onyx pieces—whether a cameo or intaglio—usually fetch even more, their value rising according to the intricacy and artistry of the work.
  • Treatments and size matter too, but the cut and craftsmanship behind the stone can make all the difference between an everyday bead and an heirloom-worthy centerpiece.

In short, if you’re looking for the most valuable onyx in the jewelry world, keep an eye out for the pieces that show off a skilled hand and a willingness to move beyond the ordinary sphere or oval.

Onyx Value: What Determines Price?

Despite its rich history and dramatic flair, onyx is surprisingly accessible when it comes to price tags. That said, the true value of an onyx piece doesn't just come down to how shiny it looks in a shop window (or, let's be honest, on your Instagram feed).

A few factors shape the price of onyx you might encounter in the wild (or, more likely, online or in a jewelry case):

  • Treatments: Nearly all onyx sold today has undergone some form of treatment—usually dyeing to enhance its color. Untreated stones tend to fetch a bit more, since they're less common, but the difference isn’t jaw-dropping. If you stumble on a truly natural, untreated onyx, that’s a minor victory for purists.
  • Size & Cut: As with most gemstones, bigger is typically pricier. But cut makes a difference, too. Faceted onyx (think lovely rounds, ovals, or dramatic marquise shapes) costs more than beads or the classic cabochon because faceting takes a skilled hand and a lot of patience—something artisans know how to charge for.
  • Craftsmanship & Carvings: Detailed cameos, intricate beads, or statuesque figures carved from onyx can carry a higher price tag, just like the ones that graced the necklines and mantelpieces of Victorians (and, for the particularly fortunate, Roman emperors). The more detailed the work, the more it’s likely worth.

So, what’s the going rate? Faceted onyx stones usually fall somewhere between $1 and $11 per carat, depending on quality and cut. Simpler cabochons and beads can be downright budget-friendly—starting at about $0.80 per carat and rarely pushing past $5. Of course, exceptional pieces—say, a masterfully carved cameo or a museum-worthy Victorian brooch—could command far more.

But for the everyday collector (or name enthusiast—thanks again, Iggy Azalea), onyx remains one of the more affordable ways to add some gemstone gravitas to your collection.

The Four Cs of Onyx Gemstones

Now, if you’ve ever wandered into the glittering world of gemstone evaluation, you’ve probably bumped into the famous “Four Cs”—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Yes, they’re just as important for onyx as they are for flashier stones like diamonds—although with a few twists.

Cut:
Onyx is no shrinking violet—its durability and smoothness mean it can pull off nearly any shape you imagine. Beads and cabochons (those smooth, domed stones you see everywhere) are the classics, but don’t overlook onyx’s starring role in carving. Cameos and intaglios—those detailed portraits and scenes—have been crafted from onyx since the days of ancient Rome and Greece. If you’re picturing a piece from a Victorian brooch or a Roman signet ring, chances are onyx was shaped into a miniature masterpiece.

Color:
The classic black-on-black onyx gets most of the limelight, but onyx isn’t a one-trick pony. Natural onyx often features creamy bands of white or brown swirling through the black, creating dramatic contrast—think “Arabic onyx” if you want the technical term. And for those looking for something even more playful, varieties like sardonyx and carnelian onyx couldn’t be further from basic black, showing off shades from reddish-browns to deep crimsons. Fun fact: much of the jet-black onyx you spot in modern jewelry has been dyed, since truly pure black is fairly rare in nature.

Clarity:
Unlike the transparent gemstones that obsess over being free from microscopic flaws, onyx is usually opaque, so inclusions aren’t much of a worry. Most pieces look perfectly “eye-clean”—that is, you won’t notice any blemishes or oddities without squinting through a magnifying glass.

Carat Weight:
One thing onyx doesn’t do is shy away from making a statement. It’s often found in larger cuts compared to more delicate stones. Whether you’re after palm-sized carvings or delicate cabochons for a ring, you’ll find onyx in a remarkable range of sizes. Incidentally, if you’re ever trying to tell onyx apart from its doppelgänger, obsidian, give it a feel—onyx tends to be noticeably heavier.

With all that in mind, you can see why this stone has captivated both ancient and modern tastes...

What Is Sardonyx?

While we're on the topic of onyx’s many personalities, it’s worth talking about sardonyx. Sardonyx is actually a variety of onyx; you can think of it as onyx’s more flamboyant cousin, with bands of reddish-brown (from sard) and white or black layers. This distinct banding makes sardonyx especially popular for carving cameos and intaglios, much like onyx itself.

So, if you come across a cameo or bead with striking reddish tones layered with white, you might just be looking at sardonyx. Interestingly, this stone even snagged a spot as a traditional August birthstone—long before peridot took the spotlight. Sardonyx’s rich colors and history make it a favorite, both for jewelers in the past and anyone with a soft spot for antique style today.

Is Untreated Onyx More Valuable Than Treated Onyx?

That brings us to a classic question—does untreated onyx fetch a better price than its treated counterpart? Generally, yes. While onyx tends to be fairly affordable overall (no need to sell your family’s prized tea set to get one), untreated stones often carry a touch more prestige—and price—compared to their dyed or “improved” relatives.

This isn’t to say treated onyx is the gemstone equivalent of costume jewelry. Quite the opposite: skilled lapidaries can work minor miracles with color and finish. Still, collectors and purists (you know, the types who can spot a synthetic ruby from ten paces and who read Pliny the Elder for fun) will nearly always favor natural onyx. In short: when it comes to value, natural generally nudges ahead, but the gap is rarely as wide as with more famous gems like sapphire or emerald.

What Sizes and Carat Weights Are Common for Onyx?

Onyx is not one to be shy when it comes to heft and size. The stone is found in impressively large masses, which means it can be fashioned into everything from petite beads to oversized centerpieces worthy of a Victorian brooch. As for carat weights, there’s quite a bit of variety depending on the cut.

For faceted round onyx stones—the sort you’d see sparkling in a statement ring—sizes typically hover in the 7 to 9 millimeter range, translating roughly to stones weighing between 1 and 2 carats. If you’re venturing into the world of cabochons (those smooth, domed and usually un-faceted gems), expect even more range: they can tip the scales at a modest 0.15 carats, but some grow up to a boulder-esque 20 carats or more.

Whether you’re after something dainty or ready to make a statement, there’s bound to be an onyx that suits the purpose. Large stones especially are readily available, thanks to the abundance of onyx deposits worldwide.

Onyx Stone Clarity and Inclusions

But what about inclusions? You may be wondering if onyx stones are riddled with little internal quirks like some other gems. The answer—thankfully for perfectionists—is that onyx is typically free of noticeable inclusions. Most specimens you’ll encounter won’t have those odd “birthmarks” you sometimes spot in quartz or sapphire.

Here's the tricky bit, though: because onyx ranges from translucent to fully opaque, its clarity isn’t graded in the same way as, say, a sparkling diamond. The usual grading systems go out the window. Yet, despite the technicalities, onyx is prized for its “eye-clean” appearance. In plain terms, that means you won’t spot visible imperfections with the naked eye—magnifiers need not apply.

So while gemologists might not assign an official “clarity grade,” quality onyx will look sleek, smooth, and satisfyingly uniform, whether it’s gleaming in a Victorian cameo or nestled in your favorite signet ring.

Onyx has always been a fairly common choice for artisans. People like to carve it, cut it up, and put it into jewels. People have made bowls, cameos, statues, beads, and gems out of onyx. Cameos and onyx have a long history, actually. So much so that some believed the origins of the word cameo to be related to the onyx stone. A cameo, in the carving sense, refers to a relief portrait carving, but the background is, typically, a contrasting color. The image below is an example.

 

Onyx has natural contrasting colors, so it was an obvious choice for most carvers. It also looks good. The other interesting part about it is that apparently it was easy to make in terms of imitations. In other words, make artificial onyx. The practice isn't new, and the ancient Romans knew how to make some convincing fakes apparently. It could be dyed or "cemented together" as Pliny the Elder describes. If done properly, this could have been highly profitable. Indeed, Pliny claims that it was a type of fraud by which fortunes could be made and none could compare. Our methods of detecting artificial stones is way better than what the ancient Romans had, so it is unfortunate that a lot of these con artists got away with their misdeeds. 

But let's back up for a moment and talk about where onyx gets its name. Pliny the Elder, a rather famous old Roman who wrote a lot about rocks and things, gave the stone its name all the way back in 77 AD. The history of onyx is far from monochromatic—its symbolism has swung from positive to negative and back again across different cultures and centuries.

Symbolism: From Bad Luck to Protection

In ancient China, folks actually steered clear of onyx, believing it could bring bad luck. Medieval writers took things up a notch, suggesting onyx could even invite nightmares, arguments, or worse—demons. Yikes.

Then came the Victorian era, where onyx found itself associated with grief and mourning. Queen Victoria herself set the trend after her husband's passing in 1861, donning heavy, statement jewelry featuring onyx and other dark stones. The Arabic term for black onyx, el jaza, even translates to “sadness.” Not exactly the life of the party.

But before you relegate onyx to the land of gloom, know that not every culture painted it with the same brush. Over time, attitudes shifted, and onyx’s reputation brightened. Chinese Feng Shui practitioners began to value onyx for its protective qualities and resilience-boosting powers. Ancient Indian traditions saw the stone as a symbol of both protection and romantic partnership. So, if you’re looking for a stone with a bit of an edge—both literally and figuratively—onyx has you covered.

And for the history buffs: some of the most famous onyx artifacts are truly ancient. The breastplate of the Jewish High Priest from the 14th century B.C. Included onyx among its twelve gemstones. The spectacular Great Cameo of France, carved in 23 AD out of sardonyx (a cousin of onyx), is the largest surviving cameo from antiquity.

For fashion, cameos remained popular well into the Victorian period. It might even be safe to say that they didn't fall out of popularity until after the Edwardian period. Many of these of course used an Onyx stone. Alongside rings and necklaces, these were some of the most common pieces of jewelry someone could wear, even for men. But such portraits today have fallen out of favor. However, some are returning to Victorian fashion pieces. This Victorian, or neo-Victorian, revival might push cameos back into the spotlight. It is unlikely, however, as the modern style is generally minimalist or asymmetrical, at least in 2020. As for 2021, it is still likely going to stay. But even if it did get pushed out of the fashion scene, cameos don't fit with most modern fashion styles.

Onyx, though, is here to stay! Outside of cameos, they have simply just made a mark in all sorts of jewelry, especially for men. It was probably a more popular name for men during the famous gem-craze naming conventions of, you guessed it, the Victorian Era. However, it does appear that the name is becoming slightly more popular. This is from the general increase in popularity for gemstones and crystals (Sort of like another era we already mentioned). The other reason is that Iggy Azalea has named her son Onyx, so it isn't surprising that some have taken to naming their children Onyx. Though it is becoming a gender-neutral name. There are dozens of gemstone names that are likely to come back.

Onyx, though, is here to stay! Outside of cameos, they have simply just made a mark in all sorts of jewelry, especially for men. It was probably a more popular name for men during the famous gem-craze naming conventions of, you guessed it, the Victorian Era. However, it does appear that the name is becoming slightly more popular. This is from the general increase in popularity for gemstones and crystals (Sort of like another era we already mentioned). The other reason is that Iggy Azalea has named her son Onyx, so it isn't surprising that some have taken to naming their children Onyx. Though it is becoming a gender-neutral name. There are dozens of gemstone names that are likely to come back. 

Onyx as a Birthstone

So, where does onyx land in the world of birthstones? If you’re a fan of astrological ties, onyx is associated with the sign of Leo. That’s right—lions get the luxury of calling onyx their own, supposedly for the extra courage and clarity it offers (as if a Leo needed more confidence).

But birthstone assignments aren’t always so straightforward. In the old tradition, a special variety called sardonyx was actually the designated birthstone for August. Sardonyx has its own ancient street cred and was once the go-to choice for anyone born mid-summer. Want to lean into history a bit? Sardonyx jewelry is about as classic as it gets.

Yet August doesn’t have a monopoly on onyx. In modern lists, onyx sometimes makes an appearance as a birthstone for February, usually as an alternative for people who aren’t fans of amethyst’s purple punch. Onyx’s dark charm is a fresh take—easy to pair with anything and just a little mysterious.

So, to sum up:

  • Sardonyx for August (the old-school pick)
  • Onyx for February (modern alternative)
  • And a cameo for Leos for that zodiac flair

Ultimately, if you like the look, claim it—birthstone rules are basically just Victorian-era suggestions, anyway.

Onyx and Wedding Anniversaries

If you’re not celebrating a birthday that falls under Onyx’s realm, there’s still a place for this stone in the world of tradition. Onyx has long held its status as the go-to gemstone for the 7th wedding anniversary. So, if you or someone you know is approaching that lucky number seven, a gift of onyx—maybe a handsome cufflink set or a bold pendant—would be right on the mark. Not only does it make a statement, but it nods to centuries of custom—something both practical and poetic, just like a good marriage.

What Makes Arabic Onyx Unique?

There’s a special variety of onyx out there known as “Arabic onyx.” What sets it apart from the onyx crowd? Well, it’s distinguished by a striking pattern: a deep black base topped with a distinct white upper layer. Think tuxedo, but make it gemstone.

Some gemologists actually consider Arabic onyx the “real deal” or “true onyx” because of this classic black-and-white contrast. Unlike other types of onyx, which can show all sorts of bands and colors (think browns, reds, greens), Arabic onyx keeps it simple—and dramatic. This signature look helped make it a favorite for cameos and intaglios, probably because that contrasting palette lets fine details stand out.

Caring for Your Onyx Stone

So, you’ve gotten your hands on a dazzling piece of onyx—maybe a ring, a bead, or even a not-so-subtle Victorian cameo revival (there’s no shame in that). But how do you make sure your onyx sticks around to tell its tale to future generations—or at least stays shiny for your next big event?

Onyx isn’t the toughest gem in your jewelry box, but with a little know-how, you can keep it looking excellent:

  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: No bleach baths or ammonia spa days for onyx. Keep it far from household cleaners and perfumes—they’ll wreak havoc on the stone’s beautiful surface.
  • Gentle Cleaning Only: Stick to a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Skip the ultrasonic cleaners—onyx isn’t fond of intense vibrations or heat.
  • Protect from Scratches: With a hardness of 6.5-7, onyx can still get scratched by harder minerals or metals. Store onyx pieces separately (a velvet pouch or lined jewelry box does the trick).
  • Leave It Off for Rough Tasks: Gym time, gardening, household repairs—onyx prefers to sit these out. It’s especially susceptible to knocks and chips.
  • Take Cues from History: If the Victorians could keep their cameos flawless with candlelight and horse-drawn carriages, you can do it with a little care and storage.

If you follow these basic tips, your onyx jewelry (and your cameo collection) should stand the test of time and avoid the fate of all those ancient Roman imitations—turning into a cautionary tale.


Scientific Information 

Onyx Pronunciation: /ɒnɪks/ or /ɑnɪks/

Onyx Misspellings: Onix

Onyx at a Glance

If you’re looking to sound fancy, Onyx is pronounced either “AH-niks” or “ON-iks”—dealer’s choice. Just don’t spell it “Onix” unless you’re talking about Pokémon.

  • Etymology: Comes from the Latin and Greek word onyx, meaning “claw” or “fingernail.” (No, it’s not because it scratches.)
  • Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, so it can stand up to most everyday adventures—but maybe don’t take it mountain climbing.
  • Lustre: Waxy, sometimes silky. When polished, it can even look slightly glassy.
  • Crystal System: Trigonal, which means it’s got that classic quartz backbone.

Scientific Specs & Fun Facts

Onyx belongs to the quartz family, but it’s not just any quartz. It’s actually a microcrystalline variety—think cousins like carnelian, jasper, and bloodstone. All of these fall under the umbrella of chalcedony (yes, that’s a mouthful).

  • Family: Microcrystalline quartz, a.k.a. Chalcedony.
  • Color: Most famous for black, but can also show off in brown, red, white, grayish blue, or even green.
  • Structure: Trigonal, which is a sub-system of the hexagonal system. (Quartz always likes to keep it complicated.)
  • Transparency: Translucent to opaque—onyx is never see-through, but sometimes it lets a little light sneak in at the edges.
  • Refractive Index: 1.54–1.66 (for the optical nerds).
  • Density: 2.65–2.91.
  • Cleavage: None! So if it breaks, it’ll fracture rather than split along a plane.

Where in the World Is Onyx?

Location: Various locations in Europe, Americas, Africa, and Asia. Onyx mines are actually scattered across nearly every continent, with some of the most notable sources including Brazil, India, and the United States—especially Utah, Oregon, Rhode Island, and California. Australia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and Russia also produce significant quantities of onyx. So, whether it’s tucked under the red earth of the American West or deep within the quarries of India, onyx has quite the passport.

And there you have it—a stone that’s as worldly as it is mysterious!


Onyx Metaphysical Properties, Meaning, and Uses

Onyx and the ancients got along pretty well. It held power and courage. It is almost like the ancient people knew this, as gods, heroes, and lords were often carved from Onyx. It is also a stone that can bring a calm an overactive mind. What are the onyx stone properties?

  • Stone of Destiny
  • Stone of Influence
  • Stone of Courage
  • Stone of Calming

Onyx is like a stone that understands balance. Yin and yang trapped within its crystal halls. This balance can create a calm atmosphere.

Onyx and the Zodiac: A Special Connection for Leo

What about onyx and astrology, you ask? Well, onyx happens to be an especially meaningful stone for those born under the sign of Leo. Leos are well known for their fire—boldness, ambition, and leadership come as second nature to them. But every lion, no matter how majestic, occasionally needs a little extra grounding.

That’s where onyx steps in. It’s said to encourage inner strength and bolster self-confidence, balancing Leo’s vibrant energy with a dose of clarity and calm. This jet-black stone is believed to help Leos temper moments of impulsiveness, lending them patience and insight when they most need it.

In short: while onyx carries a universal appeal, it holds a particular resonance for Leo, acting as both a shield and a guide—making it a stellar companion for navigating both the limelight and the shadows.

Mythological Origins of Onyx

As if onyx needed any more dramatic flair, the ancient Greeks cooked up a rather imaginative origin story for the stone. According to legend, it all began when Aphrodite—the goddess of love and beauty—fell asleep by the riverbank. In a classic case of “what could possibly go wrong,” her ever-mischievous son Eros (or Cupid, if you’re team Rome) decided to snip off one of her fingernails with his arrow. The severed nail tumbled into the river—because of course it did.

Now, here’s the mythological twist: instead of the remnants simply vanishing, the gods ensured that even a stray fingernail wouldn’t go to waste. Immortal bodies, after all, don’t decay like us mere mortals. So the nail was magically transformed into onyx. In some versions of the tale, it’s the Fates—those three destiny-weaving sisters—who step in to turn the nail into the elegant layered stone we know today.

If nothing else, it's proof that even in mythology, gemstones come with a healthy dose of drama and a dash of divine mischief.

Association with the Root Chakra

So, which chakra does onyx call home? That would be the root chakra, often known as the "base chakra." This energy center is located at the base of your spine—think of it as your personal anchor, the spot you return to whenever life feels a bit shaky.

If your root chakra is having a rough day, you might feel untethered, unsettled, or anxious for no clear reason. That's where onyx steps in. Many believe onyx helps realign and energize the root chakra, restoring your sense of stability and footing. With onyx on your side, that feeling of being grounded and secure just might make a welcome return.


The Wrap Up

Onyx has a special place in history for being one of the most common gemstones for carvings, especially in cameos. The stone may not find a place in those pretty portraits anymore, but it's still an incredibly popular stone among jewelers. Black is just a color that everyone loves. It feels enigmatic, powerful, and is just cool. When the white is mixed in, it creates a healthy and beautiful contrast that has been understood for centuries. 

What is Onyx, Really?

Onyx is a silica mineral and, truth be told, it’s part of the sprawling quartz family. But it isn’t your average chunk of quartz, like amethyst or citrine. Instead, onyx belongs to the microcrystalline side of the family—alongside other familiar faces such as carnelian, jasper, and bloodstone. These stones are all grouped under the umbrella of chalcedony (or, if you prefer, chalcedonic quartz).

Within the chalcedony clan, a little family drama occurs: If the color bands are curved, you’ve got agate. If they’re flat and show off black, white, or dark brown shades, that’s onyx. Some gemologists see agate and onyx as siblings, while others swear they’re more like distant cousins. Either way, their chemical makeup is strikingly close.

Click Here to See Our Onyx Collection!

 

Black Onyx Crystal Natural Gemstone Freeform Tumbled Stone | Multiple Sizes - 3

Crystals and gemstones are nature's true beauties, but they are not a substitute for seeking professional medical, legal, health, or financial advice.  Crystals and gemstones are to be used in conjunction with any professional care you are receiving and do not provide healing, cures, or other remedies modern medicine can provide.  The information provided in our listings with regard to the powers of crystals and gemstones are all derived from personal & professional experience with crystals & gems as well as ancient wisdom and texts documenting knowledge gained from civilizations around the world.  They are not backed by the FDA or scientific/government resources.  Our crystals & gemstones are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease or malady.  Our crystals and gemstones are also not a replacement for seeking professional legal advice, financial advising, or any other field of professional expertise.  Crystals and gemstones are intended to be appreciated for their natural power and beauty, and used alongside modern, professional methods.

Sources

 

Kozminsky, Isidore. The Magic and Science of Jewels and Stones. New York, The Knickerbocker Press, 1922.

Kunz, George Frederick. The Curious Lore of Precious Stones. Philadelphia, J. B. Lippincott Company, 1913.

Pliny the Elder. The Natural History, Volume VI. 

https://www.mindat.org/min-2999.htmlet

https://www.etymonline.com/search?q=onyx

 

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