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 colour, too. They may be white or grey, spreading to other colours. Sardonyx stones usually contain flat-banded, white and brownish-red bands. Onyx is a gemstone with alternating light and dark bands, which are coloured in brown, red, black, white and grey.
The term sardonyx is derived from the Greek word sard meaning `reddish brown` and onyx meaning `veined gem`. 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 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 colours 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 colour 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 jewellery. Treated agate is often sold as Black Onyx, which is regarded as a popular stone.
Benefits of Onyx
Onyx is used as a heart, kidney, nerve, capillary, hair, eye and nail strengtheners. 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. Black onyx is believed to be one of the most powerful protection stones. The onyx generally does this by absorbing and transforming negative energy. Onyxes 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.
See Also
(Last Updated on : 22/07/2011)
