Onyx: properties of a stone, its types and applications

Many people know onyx as a mystical stone, from which, according to legend, the temple of Solomon himself was built. Since that time, the history of the stone has managed to acquire many legends and superstitions: some believed that the stone could prolong life, others were afraid of its extraordinary color, and some even considered it a money stone. This article will discuss the properties of onyx, its types and applications for this mineral.

Onyx is considered one of the agate varieties and is a parallel-banded chalcedony. Like many sedimentary rocks, onyx has a simple chemical formula - SiO2 (silicon dioxide).

Depending on the varieties of onyx, the chemical formula, as well as the appearance of the mineral itself, can vary significantly. For example, the chemical formula of marble onyx looks like this - CaCO3. A distinctive feature of onyx from other chalcedony is its unique color, which can include stripes and circles of 5-7 colors at the same time: red, black, white, gray, even green and blue.

The origin of onyx can be easily explained with the help of modern science - this mineral is formed by the layering of carbonate minerals in hot springs. When this process proceeds too quickly, a new mineral is formed - travertine. In the course of layering, the mineral can be impregnated with other rocks and elements, for example, oxide iron, from which the stone received a non-standard reddish color.

The first attempts to extract onyx were made in the 5th century BC in Egypt and Babylon, a little later, deposits appeared in Greece and Rome, where the mineral is mined to the present day.

Over the long history of the existence of this stone, many peoples began to ascribe more and more mystical meanings to it.

It is believed that the name of the stone came from the ancient Greek language - where the word "onychion" was actually translated as "nail".

The history of the appearance of this stone is rooted in legends and myths. The ancient Greeks believed that this stone is the nail of the goddess of beauty Aphrodite herself. Legends say that once the god of love Eros amused himself with his arrows near the sleeping Aphrodite. During one of these games, one of the arrows grazed the goddess's nail and cut off a piece of it, which fell from Olympus onto the human world.

This stone was revered not only by the ancient Greeks, other peoples also had many legends about the properties and origin of this extraordinary mineral. Below you can see some of them.

• If you are familiar with the stories of Cicero and Demosthenes, then you have probably heard of such a method of training diction and speech organs as the use of polished stones. Ancient Roman orators put a few onyx stones in their mouths and trained for a long time before performing. It was believed that in this way they trained the muscles of the mouth and tongue, and the diction itself became clear, loud and sonorous.
• In many European countries of the Middle Ages, onyx was used as vessels for storing perfumes, medicines and herbs. This stone has exceptional chemical neutrality and does not interact with common chemical irritants, unlike metals, which can oxidize, rust and damage jewelry.
• Mesopotamia, Babylon and Assyria once used onyx as an ornamental mineral from which interior elements, dishes and some household items were made.
• In Indian culture, it was considered a magical sacred stone that fell to Earth at the very beginning of the creation of the world. Only clergy and leaders were allowed to wear onyx products and jewelry here. Also, Indian shamans and healers actively used it in their magical rituals and offerings.
• Since ancient times, Asian peoples have considered onyx to be a stone of great sadness. For quite some time now, onyx has been used in their culture as a mineral to decorate the tombs of great emperors and noble persons. It is believed that the mineral provides the dead with eternal peace and tranquility.
• The description of onyx was also found among the ancient Aztecs - there it was associated with rich spiritual and mystical energy. Whole buildings and temples were built here from onyx slabs and stones. The toolkit for sacrifices and cult rites consisted of striped onyx.
• The legends about the great and wise King Solomon tell of a huge temple made of pure onyx, in which there were no windows or even large doors. There was practically no light inside the temple, which is why there was a constant twilight. Over time, this method began to be used in other temples and churches. Even today, many modern churches use transparent onyx plates instead of glass in their temples. It is believed that onyx gives a place of sacredness and pacification, bringing it closer to the divine.
• In Arab culture, this stone had its own intimidating meaning. This people identified the stone with the eyes of a dead girl. Since there were significant deposits of onyx in African territories (which was highly valued among sellers of minerals and jewelry), the Arabs preferred to sell the mined stones as soon as possible and not be in their deposits for a long time.

The mentions of this stone in religion are especially interesting - the Christian Bible says that this mineral was once located in Eden itself, and then was inlaid in the ring of the high priest Aaron, along with 11 other sacred stones. Islam also attributes miraculous properties to this stone, it is not for nothing that a fragment of a huge onyx was placed at the base of a mosque in the city of Kaaba. In addition, the rich embroidered robes of Jewish clergymen were often decorated with onyx.

Over the centuries-old history, many peoples have attributed more than a hundred medicinal, magical and healing properties to onyx. Today, this mineral is actively used in lithotherapy sessions, in addition, it is an indispensable attribute of experienced magicians and mystics.

Even in ancient times, healers and shamans used onyx to treat many physical ailments and diseases. Most often, a mineral was used, ground into powder or a solid stone, which was applied to a specific part of the body. Onyx was especially popular in wartime - it was believed that an aqueous tincture on onyx was able to disinfect and quickly heal wounds.

Today, onyx is most often worn on problem areas.

• Light and white onyx is worn around the neck for diseases of the thyroid gland, respiratory tract or common toothache.
• Red and fiery stones are worn closer to the heart in the form of brooches or pendants. It is believed that it helps with cardiovascular diseases.
• In case of diseases of the circulatory system, it is recommended to wear onyx bracelets or pendants in the places where the most significant blood vessels pass.
• For diseases and pathologies of the eyes, you can wear tiaras or earrings with blue or blue onyx.
• For diseases of internal organs and skin diseases, experts in lithotherapy advise to massage damaged areas with onyx stones through rags and gauze.

Leading experts in lithotherapy also claim that marble-type onyx is able to have a rejuvenating effect on the body. That is why in ancient times monarchs used it in their decoration and ornaments - with the help of this mineral they sought to prolong their existence in order to retain power.

Green onyxes, judging by the judgments of experts, strengthen the immune system and relieve chronic fatigue and vitamin deficiency.

Below we will consider all the healing properties of the stone, which are endowed with them by experienced lithotherapists.

• Improving the general condition of the articulatory apparatus. Toning the organs of speech, improving diction and pronunciation.
• Easing nervous tension, improving the state of the nervous system. The beneficial effect of onyx on lingering depressive disorders has also been noted.
• Overall improvement in sleep, reduced risk of insomnia and nightmares. People who have onyx figurines in their bedrooms often have pleasant and simple dreams that do not burden their heads.
• Also, onyx is able to treat impotence and serve as a talisman in the process of conceiving a healthy child. For this, red onyxes are usually used - it is believed that they have the most powerful masculine principle.
• Treatment of pathologies of the heart and circulatory system, reducing the risk of blood clots and strokes.
• Even in ancient times, onyx was actively used to treat headaches. For this, wealthy ladies specially wore tiaras and onyx hoops on their heads.
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Minerals were often placed near the cradles of newborn babies.It was believed that the stone prevents the formation of painful gas in the body and relieves colic.
• During epidemics of plague and smallpox, plates with onyx stones were placed near the patient's bed. It was believed that the healing energy of the stone slows down the course of the disease, stops inflammatory processes and relieves fever.
• Today, onyx jewelry is worth giving to people with drug and alcohol addiction. It is believed that the stone pacifies a person, dulling his desire to use the next dose.
• This stone is also able to cope with problems of the respiratory system. At one time, onyx was worn by people with bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis.

In astrology and witchcraft, onyx is considered an extremely positive and kind stone that can motivate a person to achieve large and small goals. The general energy of the stone removes fatigue from a person, drives away laziness, helps to survive routine workdays.

The fact is that each of the varieties of onyx has its own specific abilities, however, each type of mineral also has general magical properties.

• Onyx helps talented people realize their creative potential, strengthen social ties with potential employers. The stone contributes to the fact that your training and self-development classes will always bring you pleasure and will never become exclusively work.
• Onyx is considered a stone of born leaders and leaders. He gives the words more confidence and reasoning, makes judgments logical and convincing, helps to gain authority among subordinates.
• In front of a difficult and impossible task, onyx will give you firm confidence in the result. It is also a stone for planners who prefer to think ahead and plan the end of the process based on their expectations.
• It is not for nothing that even in ancient Rome, onyx was used to develop the articulatory apparatus. This endowed the mineral with magical properties that allowed the owners to work more efficiently on speech, make it clearer and more expressive.
• Like many other stones, onyx helps to bring things started to the end. The structure of all stones lies in their completeness and strength, which is reflected in their extraordinary abilities.
• In addition to other magical abilities, onyx is used by many magicians and sorcerers as a powerful amulet. He is able to save from accidents, averts curses, warns of perfect betrayal or treason.
• Onyx endows the elderly and adults with wisdom, tolerance and tranquility. It balances their precarious health, promotes good mood and protects against feelings of loneliness. For young people, it is a stone of endurance, determination and courage, but it also helps them to stop at the right time, to think about the correctness of the accomplished deeds.

Depending on the variety, this mineral may have certain abilities.

• Creamy, yellow and wheat colored minerals have a strong positive aura. They are advised to be worn by individuals with frequent mood swings, phobias and depression. For such purposes, figurines or figurines made of solar mineral are best suited, then they will favorably influence not only the state of the owner, but also the place of his rest.

• Green and emerald onyxes are family stones that strengthen a young marriage and give patience and respect in an already held long marriage. This stone has the function of a talisman against quarrels, betrayals and conflicts.

• White, colorless or milky onyx in appearance it seems to be an absolutely unremarkable mineral, but it carries tremendous power in itself. It is a real lifeline for insecure people. He protects weak-willed people from enemies, protects against accidents, is able to console in difficult times.

• Onyx marbled color suitable for hyperactive individuals. It has a tonic and calming effect on them, puts thoughts in order and soothes tense muscles and nerves. This stone will be especially useful for choleric people with their frequent mood swings.

• Onyxes in dark, resinous and chestnut shades are the most powerful magical accessories for sorcerers and esotericists. They open the prophetic gift, protect against dark forces, and are able to help a person cope with what fears and doubts.

In order for the mineral to maximize its abilities, it should be worn either on the index finger or in the solar plexus zone. Onyx looks best with silver, and in terms of energy it is combined with jasper, carnelian, agate and opal.

Today there are more than 10 varieties of onyx, which differ from each other in density, transparency, structure, color, stripes and chemical composition. Below you will find out what types of onyx are.

• Marble. The most popular mineral on the market. It differs from others by the presence of many horizontal stripes of white, red, orange and yellow throughout the texture of the stone.
• White onyx. A colorless or translucent mineral of gray, snow-white or milky color. On the surface or inside the mineral, you can see the characteristic orange or rusty marble cracks.
• Pink onyx. Possesses a unique peach or pink color. On the structure of the mineral, stripes or circles are actively located in the form of color stains or plaque of more or less saturated shades.
• Blue or blue onyx. To some extent, a unique type of onyx - it has an original deep texture of heavenly, sea or ultramarine color.
• A red, brown, or bloody mineral. Another name is sardonyx. It is considered a kind of carnelian. It has a bright red color with many internal horizontal stripes.
• Honey onyx. A decorative variety of wheat, yellow or golden colored stone with specific stains throughout the structure.
• Dark onyx. It is considered the most expensive and rare variety. The structure is solid, in the mineral there are rarely stripes or circles with an admixture of other rocks and colors.

At the moment, onyx is actively used in jewelry. Precious items and jewelry made from this mineral can be found literally in every jewelry store. For women, these are beads, pendants, hairpins, brooches, tiaras, bracelets, rings and earrings with opal.For men - rings, cufflinks, clasps, belts with inlaid buckles, buttons, watches with onyx, rosary.

Also, onyx is widely used as a material for the manufacture of interior items.

• For example, eggs and onyx pyramids are placed near the beds of sick people. It is believed that they have a beneficial effect on the course of the disease and accelerate recovery.
• Fish, cats, frogs and other stone figurines symbolize wealth and prosperity in the home. They are believed to attract new ideas and financial stability.
• Tableware elements, sets and kitchen utensils from onyx. It is believed that such items can enhance the taste of food, make it richer and more pleasant.

Astrology has endowed onyx with many magical powers, who manifest themselves in different ways with different signs of the zodiac.

• Water signs. Onyx will help crayfish to reveal their creativity, to achieve success in business - onyx of blue and sea tones are suitable here. The stone will help Scorpios not to succumb to sadness and negative emotions, and will also save this sign from accidents and tragic incidents. It is better for fish not to wear this stone, it will make them pinched and too lethargic.
• Air signs. Gemini is a natural born leader, but their inherent fluid nature and mood swings can make this difficult. The mineral will help this sign to correctly prioritize, and also stabilize the character, giving it integrity and tranquility. Here stones of variegated and extraordinary shades are suitable. For Aquarius, onyx will play the role of a focus in life's purposes. It will help them focus on the immediate tasks and not be distracted from their implementation (green stones are suitable for this). Onyx will give Libra more confidence in their decisions, protect them from rash actions (onyx of heavenly or blue flowers is needed here).
• Fire signs. Lions - real leaders and strong-willed personalities, are most suitable for dark or cobalt onyx. Lions have incredibly strong potential and are fully capable of mastering the power of the stone. Thanks to him, they will become more decisive, strong-willed and convincing, they can easily gain favor and trust. The mineral will help Aries to keep themselves in control even in stressful situations. For Sagittarius, onyx will be a wonderful talisman, since these talented people are often in the company of envious people and enemies.
• Earth signs. The Taurus stone can liberate and help to gain self-confidence (white, red and pink onyxes are more suitable here). Virgos will receive from onyx what they lack so much - exclusivity and charisma, which will allow them to climb the career ladder. For Capricorns, the mineral will be a useful regular assistant in planning daily activities.

The first attempts to counterfeit onyx were made back in the Middle Ages, when the stone began to be actively used in the creation of jewelry and accessories. To date, technologies for creating artificial minerals have reached the point that it will be difficult for an inexperienced buyer to determine the authenticity of a stone. The instructions below will help you figure out whether the stone is real in front of you or not.

• Color structure. The color of natural onyx, regardless of the variety, is always harmonious and consistent. There are no sharp overflows, no transitions from color to color, there is no opalescence and small internal cracks. Be aware that a contrasting transition and overly bright colors indicate a rough imitation of onyx.
• Some fakes can only be detected over time. Glass stones painted in onyx lose their color over time, begin to grow cloudy after a long stay in the sun or in an aquatic environment. These phenomena should not be confused with simply contaminated natural stone that you have not cleaned for a long time.
• Texture. If the craft you bought is made of filled or stained glass, just look at the inner texture of the mineral through a magnifying glass. In the glass counterfeit, you will probably notice some oxygen bubbles.
• Density. This natural mineral has incredible strength and density compared to other minerals. On artificial onyx stones, you can easily leave scratches, roughness and even dents. You can scratch a natural stone only using special tools.
• Poor thermal conductivity. Due to its exceptional density, onyx is extremely difficult to heat up, which is why it is not scary to wear it in dry and hot weather, take it to the sauna or to the beach. Glass and plastic counterfeits can deform when heated - lose their shape when exposed to significant temperature.
• Price. Despite the fact that onyx belongs exclusively to semiprecious minerals, jewelry made from natural stone will cost no less than $ 15 (beads, bracelets, pendants, rings). Individual home furnishings made from pure onyx will cost up to $ 100 depending on shape, weight and size. If you are going to buy a rich beautiful necklace with stones for only $ 5-10, most likely you are buying a regular imitation.
• The weight. Determining the natural structure of a stone is not difficult if you have something to compare the weight of jewelry or crafts with onyx. As a rule, products made from natural minerals are much heavier than polymer or glass ones.

Onyx cannot be called a finicky mineral in terms of care, however, the following list of guidelines will help you maintain the appearance and properties of this mineral for longer.

• Always store the mineral only in a special box or bag. Do not allow the mineral to come into contact with hard surfaces (including other stones). Also, try not to drop the stone - it will not collapse, but cracks may form inside. A place for storing the mineral should be chosen dry and ventilated.
• To clean onyx, there may be little ordinary water, so experts recommend using special solutions for cleaning chalcedony and wiping the stone with gentle rags and polish.
• To prevent the stone from getting dirty so quickly, you can use special dirt-repellent sprayers. This applies to jewelry and accessories that you carry with you every day.
• No soap or aggressive detergents - this will not affect the structure of the stone, but it can destroy the smooth outer coating, which will cause the mineral to lose its natural shine.

For information on the properties of onyx, see the next video.