Onyx

What is onyx?

“Onyx” is a microcrystallized form of the mineral quartz. The internal bonds of onyx are so strong that a large amount of it is thrown away when cut, ultimately resulting in a flawless cut stone.

Is onyx a form of agate?

Some mineralogists believe that onyx is a type of agate, which is itself a process of chalcedony. According to this theory, the word “onyx” refers to black or white veined agates. While other sources (such as IGS) classify both agate and onyx as patterned chalcedony.

What occasions and styles are appropriate for wearing onyx?

Between 1861 and 1885, people often wore onyx jewelry at funerals, and for a long time, onyx was a symbol of sadness and grief. Although the color onyx was considered a symbol of sadness and mourning in Western culture, after the reign of Queen Victoria, the use of clearer and brighter onyx in jewelry became more popular, and like other precious and semi-precious stones, this natural mineral was also used in a variety of cuts and pieces of jewelry. Today, jewelers use polished and clear onyx in jewelry items and, with special cuts, display it as much as possible in the center of jewelry.