Of course, onyx is not like other opaque stones! While cabochons and beads are popular cuts, onyx’s shimmering surface and durability lend themselves well to many faceted cuts. Opaque gemstones become cabochons or beads more often than faceted pieces. We’ll go over onyx’s value based on these 4 C’s of gemstone quality. But what about its gemstone properties?Īs a gemstone buyer, there are four crucial factors for knowing a stone’s true value: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.

Luster: waxy to silky Vitreous (glass-like) when polishedĬlearly, there are a lot of details behind onyx as a mineral. Regardless of which stance you take, the chemical specifications for agate and onyx are quite similar.Ĭolor: black (primarily), brown, red, white, grayish blue, greenĬrystal structure: trigonal (sub-system of hexagonal) While some experts claim this, other experts like the International Gem Society (IGS) classify agate and onyx as separate stones. When agate’s bands are flat and have white, black, or dark brown shades, that’s onyx. When chalcedony has curved color banding, it’s called agate. Onyx is technically a subtype of a subtype of chalcedony.

Microcrystalline stones fall under the umbrella of chalcedony or chalcedonic quartz, too. Onyx belongs to the latter, along with other gems like carnelian, jasper, and bloodstone. Within this family are two categories: macrocrystalline quartz, which are typical quartz stones like amethyst and citrine, and microcrystalline quartz. Onyx Stone Specifications and CharacteristicsĪs we mentioned, onyx is a silica mineral belonging to the quartz family. Now, let’s dive a little deeper into onyx’s scientific characteristics. If you or a loved one are celebrating, why not gift a stunning pair of onyx stones to commemorate the occasion? If none of these birthdays apply to you, don’t worry! Onyx is the traditional gemstone for the 7th wedding anniversary. If the bright purple of the traditional birthstone, amethyst, isn’t your style, you’ll love the onyx stone’s sophisticated vibes. Summer babies don’t get to have all the fun, though! Onyx is the modern birthstone for February, too. Why not pay homage to the past with a truly unique sardonyx pendant or ring? Sardonyx was the first birthstone for this month, way back in ancient times. How about a summer theme? If you were born in August, a variety of onyx called sardonyx is one of your birthstones. Onyx can help by providing steady self-assurance and wisdom to see problems with clarity. If you’re a Leo, onyx is the zodiac stone for you! While Leos are known for their confidence and tenacity, these positive traits can be overshadowed at times by self-doubt or impulsive decision-making. Onyx is a dark silicate mineral recognized for its lined color banding and various spiritual properties. Today, we’ll be getting into all the beauty, science, and history behind the onyx stone. During its prime, it held performances by greats like Billie Holiday and Dizzy Gillespie.īut what about as a gemstone? Onyx has a long and rich history filled with magic, royalty, and mythology.

In New York City, the historic Onyx Club was a swanky jazz club. You may recognize the name onyx from a few pop culture references.įor instance, the Pokemon franchise includes two snake-like creatures named Onyx and Crystal Onix. The onyx stone, known for its deep ebony color, shares all these qualities. It’s a powerful companion for any color and any person. Its neutral tone means it matches with everything. In fact, they come in vibrant colors weaved with magnificent bands.īlack is the most popular onyx color, and the color of power, mystery, and depth. The onyx stone is a variety of chalcedony recognized for its gorgeous black or brown coloring and striped bands.

Onyx definition