Amber Laine

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Onyx

What is Onyx?

Onyx is actually an opaque type of quartz known as chalcedony. Although it is commonly thought of as a black stone, onyx can actually come in various earthy colors. Black onyx is what most people mean when they think of onyx, but even then, black onyx usually comes with colored bands, while people still think of onyx as being solid black. Look up onyx jewelry online, and you're sure to get lots of pictures of beautiful black stone jewelry!

Onyx has a fine crystalline texture, which makes it common for cabochons, beads, and carvings (including cameo jewelry). The black color of onyx and its subtle shine make it a great gemstone for pairing with color – either paired with colorful jewelry like red coral or turquoise or accessorizing a colorful outfit with a striking black onyx gemstone.

What does Onyx have to do with Fingernails?

The word "onyx" comes straight from Greek: three Greek word "onyx" meant fingernail. According to Roman legend, which probably draws heavily from Greek legends, the god Cupid cut the divine fingernails of the goddess Venus while she slept and left them scattered. The fates, deciding that no part of a god should ever perish, turned the fingernails into stone so they would remain and be valued for all time. If that sounds a little weird (did Venus paint her fingernails black?) it's because the Greeks and Romans initially referred to all forms of chalcedony by the name of onyx, and chalcedony can have a pale color with a waxy luster that would look like a fingernail. That may sound a little gross, but it's an interesting story regardless! Only later did the name start to refer to black varieties of chalcedony exclusively.

History of Onyx

With all that stuff about fingernails, it's a bit surprising that the onyx isn't associated with myths about that sort of thing. Instead, myths about onyx are fairly general about keeping away evil. It is also supposed to promote independence while improving harmony in relationships, and is associated with dreaming and sleep, providing a peaceful sleep to the wearer. Onyx has been known and used by cultures for thousands of years. It was valued in all its colors by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Onyx is said to make up the foundation of the heavenly city described in the Bible. Onyx is an alternate birthstone for July, making it the perfect gift for the Cancer in your life. Onyx is also suggested as a gift for the seventh and tenth wedding anniversaries.

Cleaning and Caring for Your Onyx Jewelry

Onyx is a fairly hard gemstone, reaching a 7 on the Mohs scale, and thus is less susceptible to scratching. It is also tough, meaning it won't chip or break easily compared to most other gemstones. However, care should still be taken to avoid sharp impact that may break the stone, and as usual it is best to store jewelry separately (or in individual cloth or plastic bags) so that it does not scratch or be scratched. Clean onyx with warm soapy water, using a soft bristled brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid letting onyx come into contact with chemicals, acids, or oils, which can damage the color. Take off your jewelry before swimming or cleaning with chemicals, and always wait to put on your onyx jewelry until after doing your hair and makeup.