Onyx is a cryptocrystalline variety of Silicon Dioxide or Chalcedony. Many people will be surprised to learn that the vast majority of Black Onyx is dyed. This has been done for thousands of years and was particularly popular during the reign of Queen Victoria who said that its colour reflected her sadness following the death of Prince Albert.
Black Onyx is often used for rosary beads as the Christians followed the Pagan belief that it had great medicinal benefits. It was also believed to have the ability to heal wounds and to help with childbirth.
The name Onyx originates from the Greek word for claw or fingernail and in Greek Mythology it is said that Cupid cut the divine fingernails of Venus while she was sleeping and having left the clippings on the sand, the pixies turned them to stone so that no part of her heavenly body would ever perish.
Onyx has been dyed since ancient times and the Romans used it extensively to make seals and cameos.
It is said to aid restful sleep, eradicate apathy and stress and can help combat negative thoughts and sharpen the wits of the wearer. It is thought to be able to control heated passions and to be lucky for those in negotiating or gaming professions.
Frequently used in Crystal healing, Onyx can bring you into contact with actual realities and assist you in gradually releasing all that is not in harmony with your present life. It can be used to help with grief, to enhance self control, to stimulate the power of wise decision making and to encourage happiness and good fortune.
Onyx is thought to have been one of the gemstones in the high priest's breastplate, a ritual garment worn in biblical times by the Jewish High Priest whilst he presented himself to God.
The most popular colours for use in jewellery are black, green and finally red.
It is the anniversary gemstone for the 7th year of marriage and Black Onyx represents the 10th.
Being graded 7 on Mohs scale of mineral hardness makes Onyx ideal for use in jewellery.
This is our recommendation for further reading on the gemstone Onyx:
1
2
Our collection of Onyx jewellery
| ← Ocean Jasper | Opal → |
|---|
