What is Black Onyx?
Black onyx is a striking gemstone favoured by men for its deep black color and smooth, shiny appearance.
Black onyx is a variety of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz. It forms when silica deposits fill the voids in other rocks, crystallizing over time.
Black onyx has a cryptocrystalline structure, meaning that its quartz crystals are so fine that they are not visible under a microscope. This structure gives the stone its smooth, uniform texture.
Onyx comes in a variety of colors, including white, red (known as sardonyx), and green, but black onyx is by far the most well-known and sought-after variety.
It is mined in Brazil, India, Uruguay, Argentina and in Arizona and California in the USA.
Its deep black color makes it ideal for formal and statement jewelry. It is often paired with silver, to create bold and sophisticated designs.
Black onyx became especially popular during the Victorian era when it was used in mourning jewelry. Queen Victoria popularized the use of black gemstones after the death of Prince Albert, making black onyx a symbol of mourning and remembrance during the period.
Black onyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale.
To clean black onyx, use a mild soap solution and soft cloth. Protect it from harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners, acids, and perfumes, and avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage.