Onyx is classified into different types based on its coloring. Other varieties of onyx contain parallel bands of different colors between the two basic layers. Onyx most commonly exhibit two basic layers – a black base and a white upper layer. These bands can occur in almost every color. Other varieties come in different base colors along with different colored bands. The staining and heat treatment of onyx has been around since the time of the ancient Egyptians.Ĭertain varieties of onyx have a single color without any banding, black onyx is the most popular of these varieties. Usually, gray onyx or agate are treated to achieve the desired black hue you see on the market today. Natural solid black onyx is rare therefore most black onyx found commercially are usually other forms of Chalcedony that have been dyed black. Onyx is most commonly known as a black gemstone, however, these stones also occur in green, orange, red, brown, pink, and a clear variety with white banding. It has a waxy luster and is recognized by its parallel colored bands. Onyx is an opaque gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors. Her divine fingernails fell from Mount Olympus into the sacred Indus river, transforming into onyx. It is said that one day, the god of love, Cupid, cut off the fingernails of goddess Venus, his mother, with one of his arrows. Although Greek legend has a different story to tell. The shape and brightness shown by the bands when the stone is cut open resemble that of fingernails. The name onyx is derived from the Greek word “onux” meaning fingernail or claw. The main difference between them is that agate has curved bands rather than parallel. Onyx and agate are two similar banded varieties of Chalcedony gemstones. These mineral formations contain parallel bands of various colors. It is mainly made up of calcite and is formed naturally in caves as stalactites and stalagmites. Onyx is a variety of the silicate mineral chalcedony. A timeless addition to every gem connoisseur’s collection. Onyx is an affordable gemstone with unfading meaning and importance. Many skilled gem carvers revel in the layers and depths of onyx stones that allow them to create unique creations adored throughout the world. Ancient cultures knew this gemstone well and used onyx in everything from amulets to carvings and jewelry. Onyx is a versatile gemstone that can be used to spark many positive energies by wearing them or simply keeping them in your surroundings. Although black is the most popular color of onyx, there are many more varieties out there. The thought of onyx usually brings to mind images of black gemstones.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |