 Onyx is striped, semiprecious variety of the silica mineral agate with white and black, brown or red alternating bands. Its properties are the same as those of quartz. The layers in these stones range from translucent to opaque for sardonyx. The stones vary in color, too. They may be white or gray, ranging to many colorful varieties. Sardonyx stones usually contain flat-banded, white and brownish-red bands. Onyx is a gemstone with alternating light and dark bands, which are colored in brown, red, black, white and gray.
Sardonyx is the birthstone of Leo. The timeframe starts from July 23 to Aug 22. Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 7th year of marriage whereas Black Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 10th year of marriage. The word Sardonyx is derived from the Greek, Sard meaning `reddish brown,` and onyx meaning `veined gem.`
The varieties of onyx include carnelian onyx, with white and red bands, and sardonyx, with white and brown bands.
Onyx may chip or scratch rather easily, so onyx should be stored carefully and it is also noted that two specimens of onyx should not touch each other. Cameos are cut from stones, such as onyx, sardonix or agate, where different colors occur in layers. The background material is cut away, leaving the cameo design in relief. Onyx is also used in intaglios because its layers can be cut to show a color contrast between the design and the background. Sardonyx at one time was more precious than gold, silver, or sapphire. Sardonyx is always widely used in cameos and intaglios.
Onyx is a rich-looking, affordable gemstone. It is often mixed with pearls to create elegant jewelry. Treated agate is often sold as Black Onyx, which is regarded as a popular stone.
Healing ability
Onyx is used as a heart, kidney, nerve, capillary, hair, eye and nail strengthener. Onyx is said to help one sleep. This gemstone helps to eliminate apathy, stress and neurological disorders. This gemstone eliminates negative thinking, it is also believed to sharpen the wits of the wearer. Onyx is said to bring spiritual inspiration. It is a great assistance in holding emotions and passions under control. It can be mentioned that Onyx fortifies self-confidence and responsibility and also sharpens the senses. Onyx encourages a healthy egotism
Black onyx
Black onyx is believed to be one of the most  powerful protection stones. The onyx generally does this by absorbing and transforming negative energy. Because of this quality people find it helpful in relieving stress and for emotional stability. It`s one of the first i.e. root chakra grounding stones. It also encourages connection to material goals and to determination in realizing them. In much crystal literature black onyx is strongly associated to Saturn, and it is said that this stone works most positively for those with a strong Saturn in their natal charts. Although this may include people born under the sign of Capricorn, it`s not limited to them. It has been said that in India it was commonly worn to cool the ardors of love. Thus it may be very helpful for people who can`t let go of past relationships. The same can be true of any belief, which no longer serves one and they can be as hard to let go of as past relationships. Onyx`s can help to bring into contact with the actual realities, and assist the people in gradually releasing all that is not in harmony with the present lives.
Other Gemstones
Gemstones for Planets
See Also
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