Green onyx: description, properties, influence on zodiac signs


Among the semi-precious stones, a bright representative of quartz stands out - green onyx. It owes its name to the Greek word for “nail”. The gem is used for inserts into jewelry, in the creation of interior and decor items.

Onyx has hidden magical powers: it suits confident people. Previously, the mineral was called the “stone of leaders.”

Application of onyx

The history of many peoples is connected with this stone. It was used as a finishing building material in the construction of royal chambers and tombs, as a decoration for clothing, crowns, and clergy outfits. In modern times, attractive trinkets are made from it in the form of candlesticks (very often used to decorate fireplaces), animal figurines (they are used to emphasize the luxury of furniture), ashtrays, stands for stationery gift sets, cups, the price of which is affordable for everyone. Due to the wide variety of small art objects, onyx is considered by many to be a middle-grade stone rather than a precious stone.

However, it has not completely lost its value over the years. On the one hand, it is used as a material for small crafts, on the other hand, to create expensive interior items - lampshades, lamps, fireplace stands, tabletops, wall panels and mosaics, stained glass windows, flowerpots, glasses and wine glasses, caskets, lining of swimming pools and baths.

If we consider onyx from a jewelry point of view, then this stone is equal to jasper, lapis lazuli and obsidian, which join the second class of colored ornamental stones. Rings, bracelets, necklaces, brooches, hairpins, cufflinks and necklaces are made from it.

Onyx suitable for industrial use is currently mined in Turkey, Mexico, Iran, Afghanistan, Egypt and Pakistan.

History and origin


The stone appears in myths and legends.
They decorated royal chambers, tombs, robes and regalia of priests. The Old Testament states that this ornamental stone (and not marble) was used to build Solomon's temple. The structure did not have windows, but was filled with light: the material transmitted it well. Onyx was in Eden and on the breastplate of the high priest of Judah.

The gem is mentioned in ancient Greek mythology. Onyxes are the petrified nails of Aphrodite. While the goddess was sleeping, her son Eros cut them off. Onyx translated from ancient Greek means “nail”. Externally, the pebble also resembles a marigold.

This is a sacred attribute of Islam: the stone in the main Muslim shrine of the Kaaba is black onyx.

The Aztecs valued above all others the influence of a pale green mineral with brown-orange layering. Temples were decorated with it, and sacrificial vessels were made from it. Religious and secular buildings were erected from the gem.

Modern architects also use onyx, but more artificial. The tiles are used to cover subway stations, official and private residences, chic restaurants, and clubs.

Mineral deposits


Onyx is one of the minerals that is widespread throughout the globe. The rarest and most exotic specimens are found in the following deposits:

  1. Brazil.
  2. Uruguay.
  3. Arabian Peninsula.
  4. India.

Turkmenistan is famous for its cave deposits, where nature has created entire galleries from onyx, decorated with stalagmites and stalactites.

Industrial onyx raw materials are available:

  1. Pakistan.
  2. Türkiye.
  3. Afghanistan.
  4. Iran.
  5. Mexico.
  6. Egypt.

Russia is also rich in onyx deposits. The mineral is mined in Kolyma, Chukotka and Primorye.

Place of extraction

Onyx is widespread on the planet. The most beautiful specimens are mined in Uruguay, Brazil, India, and Arabia. Australia and the USA have rich deposits. In Russia there are many gems in Chukotka, Kolyma, and Primorye. Raw materials for industrial purposes are mined in Turkey, Mexico, Iran, Afghanistan, Egypt, and Pakistan.

The most famous are the Karlyuk and Kap-Kotan cave deposits in Turkmenistan. The halls and galleries are lined with mineral. Onyx stalactites and stalagmites formed in Cap Cotan.

Physical properties of onyx

Onyx is silicon dioxide; it is a type of quartz, in which minor impurities form parallel multi-colored layers.

PropertyDescription
FormulaSiO2
Density2.65—2.667 g/cm³
Hardness6,5-7
ShineGlass.
singoniaRhombic.
TransparencyTranslucent or opaque.
ColorGrey, milky white, blue-gray, green, brown, pink, blue, black.

Onyx is hard, frost-resistant, and has the ability to absorb water. These properties exceed those of Granite and Marble.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

  • Onyx has a layered structure with different shades.
  • The color of stripes in green quartz is affected by the presence of chalcedony and iron impurities.
  • The thickness of marble strips depends on the temperature at which it was formed.
  • The best quality is noted for gems mined in Africa and Asia.

The layers in the section of semi-precious onyx stone have the shape of parallel lines: in contrast to agate, in which the stripes line up in patterns.
In ancient times, Babylonian and Egyptian priests considered the mineral sacred, so they used the corresponding vessels as sacrificial ones.

In Ancient Greece, there is a legend about the Goddess Aphrodite and her baby: carelessly swinging a spear, the child broke off part of her mother’s nail, and it turned into green quartz.

Physical properties

Physical properties of green gem:

  • transparency - from translucent to translucent;
  • porosity - from 0.35 to 0.95;
  • abrasion - from 1 to 1.8 g/cm2;
  • hardness - from 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale;
  • density - 2.6 g/cm3.

Representing a marble rock, onyx itself is not marble, although it has similar properties: high frost resistance, hardness and water absorption.

Colors and varieties

The color of onyx is affected by the amount of impurities in the composition.

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The most common types of mineral are:

  • sardonyx, colored with brown and white stripes;
  • a black mineral that has patterns of white lines on a black base;
  • white gem - a mineral with pale shades of pink and aquamarine;
  • green onyx - with shades from pale green to emerald, with lines of white, brown and brown.

Types and colors of onyx


There are different varieties of onyx on the planet.

Here are the main types:

  • Sardonyx is an agate with alternating stripes of red, orange, brown or white.
  • Chalcedony – white and gray stripes.
  • Marble onyx – various shades of green.
  • Three-layer - many thin lines of burgundy-red, blue, white.
  • White onyx is a pale pink or light aquamarine shade of white stone.
  • Arabic onyx, also called black, is a dark stone with white lines or flecks.
  • Carnelian is a red and white stone.
  • Onyx agate is a gray onyx with inclusions.
  • Cave onyx is a brown stone with veins of different shades.
  • Ordinary - a stone whose stripes are only a couple of tones lighter or darker than the main color, for example, pink onyx.

It is worth noting that the words sardonyx, carnelian, chalcedony are often used as a general name for all types of stone.

All-black matte onyx is most valued. It is followed by white onyx, red, brown.

Physicochemical characteristics

Onyx is silicon dioxide, a chalcedony variety of quartz. The color of natural onyx is created by impurities.

The physical properties of onyx make it comparable to marble or granite. It surpasses them in frost resistance, water absorption or hardness.

FormulaSiO2
ColorBrown with white and black patterns, red-brown, brown-yellow, honey, white with yellowish or pinkish layers.
ShineGlass
TransparencyTranslucent to a depth of 3-4 cm
Hardness6—7
CleavageAbsent
KinkConchoidal
Density2.65—2.667 g/cm³

How to distinguish from a fake?

Knowing the exact characteristics of a stone, you can easily determine its authenticity. So, to easily recognize a fake, remember that real onyx:

  • It has a harmonious color and does not contain sharp transitions. If the transition looks unnatural and too contrasty, then most likely this is a fake.
  • Characterized by high strength. As mentioned above, the strength of the stone allows it to avoid deformation. This means that if you run a blade across the surface of the mineral, not even a scratch will remain.
  • Conducts heat poorly. Even when exposed to temperatures, the stone heats up slowly.

Healing properties of the stone


Onyx has long been valued not only for its beautiful palette and ability to absorb sunlight, but also for its healing properties. Ancient healing could not do without the use of this miraculous stone.

  • Onyx powder was used to treat diseases of the oral cavity.
  • Onyx infused water helped fight obesity.
  • Onyx powder accelerated the healing of wounds.

These treatment methods have been confirmed today; modern doctors use so-called onyx preparations in practice.
Onyx is a gem-amulet. It expels most ailments from the body.

  • For colic and kidney pain, liver ailments, onyx is placed on painful places; it is believed that it draws out pain from the inside with its positive charge.
  • Onyx is capable of cooling, it is useful for fevers and inflammations.
  • The gem drives away depression.
  • He is afraid of insomnia and stress.
  • It is able to ward off suicidal thoughts and breathe positive vital energy into a person.
  • Onyx is very useful for men, especially those suffering from ailments of the genital organs; this stone improves potency.
  • Onyx is used for rheumatism.
  • The multi-colored mineral improves hearing, vision and memory, and increases concentration.
  • The stone is also useful for cardiovascular diseases.
  • Do not forget about it for tumors of varying complexity.
  • Onyx is an immunostimulant.
  • It fights laziness and fatigue very well.

It is believed that an ornamental stone is capable of harmonizing the functioning of all organs and thus improving the general physical condition of the human body.

It also normalizes the functioning of the digestive system, and can both improve appetite and suppress it.

The most severe brain diseases can be overcome thanks to the power of onyx.

  • The mineral muffles headaches and dizziness.
  • Onyx is recommended to be worn by asthmatics and people who often suffer from ENT diseases and suffer from migraines.
  • The stone has a beneficial effect on mood.
  • There are even known cases of healing from drug addiction with the help of a gem.
  • Onyx prolongs life because, having a beneficial effect on human health, it improves its quality.

Onyx increases its positive influence on a person if worn in a silver frame, which is why jewelry stores often offer silver sets with this gem.

Important!

Since onyx takes on all the negative energy and gives off positive energy, it needs to be cleaned periodically. You can wash off all energy impurities from the stone under running cold water.

Magical properties of onyx


All varieties have magical properties. The stone helps strong people who are not afraid to take responsibility. The best option for a talisman and amulet for commanders, emergency workers, teachers or leaders in other areas.

To attract good luck, find a way out of a hopeless situation or strengthen willpower, it is enough to wear a ring.

General effects on humans

The meaning of a stone for a person is multifaceted:

  • improves memory, develops logic, intelligence;
  • helps to complete the task;
  • activates or develops talents;
  • helps to become a speaker (beads on the neck or a small stone under the tongue);
  • strengthens self-confidence;
  • helps to gain the authority of others.

The stone makes the owner wise, purposeful, resilient and courageous. Suitable for young, hot-headed people: they will assess the situation and act calmly.

For older people, the stone gives peace, health, and does not allow them to become despondent.

Colors and magic

The magical properties of natural onyx are also determined by its color.

Green

Protects the family hearth, prevents domestic quarrels or conflicts. The gem is useful for newlyweds or those who have been in a long marriage. The most powerful family guards are rings or beads. The mineral restores mental balance and tranquility. A pyramid or ball is an attribute of fans of esotericism. It is an energy accumulator or an activator of the owner’s dormant capabilities.

Yellow

The gem is the patron saint of people prone to depression. A beautiful thing in the color of the sun will make the atmosphere of the room bright and cozy.

Marble

Guardian of marital fidelity, an appropriate wedding gift. The mineral is suitable for choleric people as a stabilizer of the nervous system.

White

The most powerful energy drink of the “family”, it protects against all negativity and allows you to achieve success.

The stone makes the owner “invisible” to unpleasant or dangerous people. A suitable talisman for people with low self-esteem. Worn as a pendant at the level of the solar plexus or as a ring. A good gift for women before appointment to a high position.

Black

Amulet number one against witchcraft and a magic shield. Helps to survive loss or overcome fear (including death).

Due to its aggressive energy, the black mineral can become a strong amulet only for strong-willed individuals. For example, entrepreneurs or those wishing to become one. However, he will not allow you to drown in greed, maintaining sober thinking.

Traditionally, black onyx is considered a “masculine” stone, but it is also suitable for strong-willed ladies.

This is interesting!

During the session, the gem will help students cope with anxiety and answer without hesitation. A useful gift for graduation from school: the child will go to university, study well, and make a career.

How to enhance the magical properties of a stone

To make the effect of the amulets greater, you can use the advice of magicians and esotericists on increasing energy.

  • Jewelry with onyx made of silver will have the best effect on a person.
  • A round or oval-shaped stone conducts energy better.
  • The ring is worn on the ring finger of the right hand.
  • It is better to carry jewelry with onyx with you at all times so that the energy connection is not interrupted; take it off only at night.
  • Charge the talisman by leaving it in the rays of moonlight.

If your jewelry is lost, don’t be upset. Either the mineral was not energetically suitable, or it fulfilled its purpose and exhausted its strength.

How to wear and care

The beautiful gem, like most of its fellows, is picky about people. He needs to first “scan” the energy of the new owner and get used to it. Compatibility is checked as standard for precious minerals: the stone is held in the hands. The feeling of comfort means that you can wear jewelry as much as you want. Worry is a warning: you will have to pay an exorbitant price for the protection of the stone.


Black onyx bracelet

The magical mineral onyx works better when worn constantly. But even if it suits the horoscope, with long contact it can “whisper” to the owner a desire to get rich at any cost. If a person’s character has become tougher, the jewelry with the stone is temporarily removed.

  • To enhance the magic of the gem, it is worn in the solar plexus area or on the index finger of the main hand.
  • Onyx is a cold stone, so it is appropriate in winter, early spring or chilly autumn.
  • The effect of the mineral is strongest on people from middle age.

The gem is not picky when storing: a spacious box is enough so that the stones do not rub. Clean the stone with a medium-hard toothbrush in soapy water. If there is more than one onyx in the decoration, add baking soda. You can rub the insert with bread crumbs.

The mineral is not afraid of heat, but in bright light it discolors to gray.

The stone absorbs negativity, but only shares positive energy with the owner. Therefore, it is periodically cleaned under running cold water and recharged with moonlight.

Onyx talismans


It’s easier to activate certain magical abilities for yourself if you know in what form the talisman will be useful to you:

  • A ring with a black onyx insert is perfect for businessmen. Thanks to the amulet, you will be able to avoid financial losses and establish the necessary connections. For people who have nothing to do with entrepreneurship, such decoration will serve a different purpose - it will increase self-esteem, confidence, and help get rid of the psychological consequences of long-lived problems.
  • Kitchen items. Gemstone dishes are a good family attribute that helps make food and drinks tastier.
  • Figures in the form of an apple or a pyramid. They carry healing power, helping people prone to illness. By applying such a souvenir to the problem area for several weeks in a row, a noticeable improvement is observed.
  • Fish figurine. A talisman for people striving to achieve career heights. The amulet attracts good luck, finances, and helps when passing exams or performing at castings.
  • Any mineral item is suitable to protect your home from thieves and destruction.

To demonstrate the abilities of a leader, a gold frame is suitable. Silver enhances the general magical capabilities of onyx.

Important!

For people who go over their heads to achieve what they want, onyx will not provide the slightest assistance.

Areas of use

The main area of ​​use of onyx rocks is jewelry. Green, black, white and marble minerals are used to make jewelry. They make beautiful rings, earrings, bracelets, beads, rosaries and pendants.

The density of the stone allows it to be used for countertops and window sills. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, it is suitable for covering kitchens and bathrooms. Bathroom walls are often decorated.

Marble onyx is used to create asymmetrical shelves and dishes.

Columns made of white onyx are erected in museums. Candlesticks, boxes and figurines are made from black and green minerals. Many figurines are used by sorcerers during magical rituals.

If you want to enhance the properties of a crystal, its frame should be made of silver. Try not to buy gold jewelry, because metals (except silver) weaken talismans.

The cut is created in several ways:

  • oval processing;
  • round;
  • cabochon.

Onyx and zodiac signs


Let's consider how the mineral affects representatives of different zodiac signs:

  • Aries. For a person born under the auspices of the constellation Aries, chalcedony will help direct energy in the right direction and bring all things to an end.
  • Calf. A warm-colored mineral, especially yellow, will help Taurus become more self-confident, overcome laziness, addiction, and also strengthen their character.
  • Twins. Agate is not suitable for these people: Geminis are usually versatile, creative people, and the stone will put pressure on them, forcing them to choose one goal and go towards it, which means destroying creativity.
  • Cancer. Impressionable, vulnerable, insecure Cancers will receive from agate courage, determination, and the opportunity to reveal their potential.
  • A lion. Sardonyx, black in color, is one of the stones most suitable for Leo as a talisman. It will enhance the natural charisma and courage of the sign’s representative, and will also help him win the respect of others.
  • Virgo. Light chalcedony will help Virgos come out of the shadows and stop doing all the menial work without receiving any reward. It will reveal their leadership potential and help them achieve career growth.
  • Scales. Blue onyx will help Libra maintain peace of mind even in the most difficult situations, make correct and thoughtful decisions, and understand others.
  • Scorpion. Dark quartz will protect Scorpio from gloomy, sad thoughts, as well as from the machinations of ill-wishers, accidents, and severe mental turmoil.
  • Sagittarius. A blue stone will protect Sagittarius, who is often the center of attention, from envy, gossip, slander, the evil eye, damage, and any negativity coming from other people.
  • Capricorn. The stone will protect Capricorn from minor injuries and illnesses, help fight manipulators, and become the best advisor.
  • Aquarius. Green onyx will help Aquarius concentrate, direct all thoughts and actions towards achieving their dreams, which will lead to incredible success.
  • Fish. Sardonyx is not very suitable for representatives of this sign, as it can greatly enhance their tendency towards loneliness, pessimism, and asceticism.

Classification by shade

Multicolored minerals often have several varieties with their own names, depending on its transparency and primary color:

  • sardonyx is the most beautiful stone of red-pink shades with transparent and milky veins;
  • carnelian is somewhat reminiscent of sardonyx, but it has more brown-beige tones;
  • the thick black variety is known as the “Arab stone”, although sometimes transparent and blue stripes are found in its “cosmic” depth; such stones are used to make rosaries and rings;
  • chalcedony is a gray variety, the most beautiful is Crimean chalcedony, with cloudy yellowish and greenish stains;
  • brown-green is the most common classic variety, which is often used for large beads and crafts;
  • “pure” onyx resembles milk diluted with water and is used as inserts in jewelry.

Occasionally you come across pure yellow, gray-violet and blue specimens, which are not very expensive, but are in demand among those who sell finished products.

Attention! For those who do not know what a real emerald or sapphire looks like, they can sell single-color onyx products (green or blue).

Oriental jewelers can cut off the one-color part, insert it into earrings and rings and sell it as more expensive semi-precious inserts and cabochons.

Stone care


Onyx is susceptible to scratches on the surface, so it requires special care.

  1. Store in a separate box or bag, do not allow the stone to rub against other products, avoid falls.
  2. Clean with special solutions or polish. The mineral does not deteriorate from exposure to water, but it will not remove dirt from hard-to-reach places and will not restore shine, and you need to take care not only of the stone, but also of the setting.
  3. Experts advise using special dirt-repellent impregnations. They will not only protect against dirt, but also make the pattern more contrasting.
  4. Avoid exposure to chemicals and soaps. This will cause the product to lose its shine.

Onyx is not afraid of the sun, so products with it can be worn every day without fear of fading or dullness.

Onyx is a stone accessible to everyone. Products made from it can be found to suit every taste and budget: a simple ring, beads, a figurine, a vase, a tabletop or a decorative panel. The stone does not lose its beauty, is not difficult to care for and fascinates with the curves of its stripes. Its magical and medicinal properties make it useful not only from a decorative point of view.

Price


Onyx is an ornamental stone, so the price of products made from it is very modest. The highest price per gram is for black and white onyx. This type of onyx is considered the rarest, since such stone is mined only in Arab countries.

In addition, bright onyxes are highly valued. The cost of the stone depends on the beauty of the design. If the natural pattern has a variety of stripes and layers, then the cost per gram of stone will be higher. Onyx jewelry can be expensive. Their high cost occurs when they contain precious materials in addition to onyx.

  • Gold earrings with black onyx start at 10,000 rubles.
  • A gold pendant can be purchased for 4,000 rubles and more.
  • The average price for silver rings is 1000 rubles, for gold rings – 15 thousand.
  • Silver cufflinks cost 4,000–5,000 rubles, and gold cufflinks cost about 30,000 rubles.
  • Bracelets start at 1000 rubles.

Beads made of multi-colored onyx vary in price from 1000–2500 rubles, considering that handmade is more expensive.

Favorable time to buy

Onyx is bought on the 5th and begins to be used on the 19th lunar day. Special times are provided for carnelian - the 3rd and 17th days and sardonyx - the 24th and 10th.

Where is it used?

The attractive mineral is used in areas that decorate life - jewelry, design and arts and crafts.

Jewelry

Its strength has made the gem a material for jewelry of all types: bracelets, rings, necklaces, brooches, cufflinks.

Natural onyx stone is beautiful in its original form; jewelers put a minimum of effort into creating cabochon inserts.

Decor

Everything is made from stone: from figurines to facing panels.

Utilitarian and aesthetic functions in the interior combine:

  • tableware (wine glasses, dishes, bowls);
  • candlesticks;
  • caskets;
  • lampshades, lamps;
  • ashtrays;
  • stands for stationery sets;
  • countertops.

Chess made from dark and light varieties of the mineral is not a shame to present to the most discerning fan of the game.


Onyx chess

Residential, public, and office spaces become elegant with wall panels, mosaics, and stained glass windows made of stone. Especially if lighting is mounted behind the onyx slab. It can even be created in a bathhouse or swimming pool.

Price

Onyx is a semi-precious or ornamental stone. Even jewelry pieces are valued in grams (not carats); ornamental materials are counted in kilograms.

The price is determined by the type of stone, but is always available.

The most expensive black and white onyx: rare because they are mined only in Arab countries. They go for jewelry. Variegated stones are valuable: the brighter and more varied the palette, the finer the stripes, the better.

The cost of onyx jewelry is more influenced by the precious setting or expensive gems:

  • with white or yellow metal – up to 1 thousand rubles;
  • 925 silver – 3–5 thousand rubles;
  • premium segment (gold, diamonds, black onyx) - 13–17 thousand rubles.

The material for cladding is assessed according to the dimensions of the product and the type of stone:

  • slab 18 mm thick - $400/m2;
  • agate raw materials - from 100 rubles/kg;
  • marble material - from 50 rub./kg.


Onyx tabletop
For a tabletop they ask from 10 thousand rubles. The average price of onyx tumbling is 10 rubles. per gram.

Compatibility with other stones


Onyx is a magically powerful, self-sufficient mineral. It’s not that such a stone cannot be combined with other minerals, but simply not desirable. For example, a ruby, amethyst or pearl will somewhat “slow down” and pacify the owner. Onyx is a stone of leadership. Leaders don't need appeasement.

This mineral belongs to the element of Earth, fueled by the support of two planets - Mercury and Saturn. This means that the proximity of fiery minerals is unacceptable. These include:

  • Pomegranate;
  • Diamond;
  • Red Tourmaline;
  • Zircon.

From the point of view of astrologer Pavel Globa, Onyx is not energetically compatible with Citrine.

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