Onyx

Semi-Precious · Chalcedony

Stone of inner strength — transforms grief into enduring power.

• Strength
• Discipline
• Focus
• Endurance
• Protection
• Wisdom

Onyx is a banded variety of chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz) with alternating bands of black and white. Black onyx — the most popular form — is typically chalcedony dyed uniformly black. The name comes from the Greek 'onyx' meaning 'claw' or 'nail'. Ancient Greeks and Romans used it extensively for cameos and intaglios, and it has been worn as protection and strength throughout history.

Healing

Depression, Grief, Stress, Lack of Focus, Negative Emotions

Everyday uses

Cameos and intaglios: onyx has been the most important stone for carved portrait cameos throughout history. Architecture: black onyx and marble were used in luxury architectural projects including Art Deco buildings of the 1920s–1930s. Used in fine watchmaking for watch dials and cases. Traditional use in mourning jewellery alongside jet and black quartz. Used in heraldry for engraved seals on important documents throughout medieval and Renaissance Europe.

Spiritual meaning

Onyx is a stone of inner strength, endurance, and the ability to bear difficulty with dignity. It is particularly powerful for those going through deep grief, difficult transitions, or depression rooted in loss. It builds the backbone of the soul — strengthening discipline, focus, and the ability to make wise decisions under pressure. It transforms sorrow into strength.

Formation

Onyx forms by the slow deposition of silica-rich fluids in cavities within volcanic rocks. The alternating bands of different colours form from changes in the composition of the depositing fluid over time. Most commercial black onyx is created by treating banded agate with sugar solution and sulphuric acid, which carbonises the sugar to a permanent deep black.

Where it is found

Found in Brazil, Uruguay, India, Pakistan, USA (California), Mexico, Madagascar, and Yemen (the most prized ancient source of onyx, mentioned in the Bible). India has been a major centre of agate and onyx cutting for thousands of years.

Zodiac

Leo, Capricorn, Virgo, Gemini

Chinese element

Tiger, Ox, Snake, Dragon