Onyx Gemstone Information

Onyx is a chalcedony quartz that is mined in India, Brazil, Uruguay and California. It is a very popular semiprecious stone. Onyx is black in color and has a fine texture. The bands of the stone are normally black and white in color. However some onyx also displays reddish-brown ribbons or bands, this variety is called as sardonyx. Sardonyx is an alternate birthstone of the month of August.

Onyx may scratch or chip rather easily, therefore when storing the stone it is better not to allow two specimens to touch each other. Most often, the value of a piece of onyx jewelry is dependent more on the quality of the design rather than on the onyx stone itself. The type of onyx which is most often found in jewelry and also the most well known type is black onyx. It can be very hard to distinguish onyx gemstones which have been dyed from natural gemstones.

The name of the stone comes from the Greek word which means nail of a claw or finger. Onyx was much more precious in ancient times than it is now. The stone was thought to bring bad luck in the middle age, today onyx is believed to be able to help people becoming more assertive and logical, boost self confidence and help people gain control over their own action and in reaching their own goal. It is the stone of self realization and determination.

Onyx is widely used as an astrological gemstone. The gem is also associated with hearing and healing of the inner ear. It help the motor nervous system and boost your immune system. This stone is effective in all Chakras and can be used to treat kidney, heart, nerve and eye ailments. For this stone to become effective, you need to wear it for long period of time as repeated exposure is needed. Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 7th year of marriage.