Onyx

Get to know onyx up close in our encyclopedia, which you can view below by clicking Show more. ↓

Interested in something specific? Skip ahead straight to the topic Symbolism and healing properties, Suitable zodiac signs, Localities and history, What is the mineral used for and what can you make from it? or Connection with chakras.

"Let go of everything old and no longer serving you, and set out to meet your destiny. Black onyx will help you."

Symbolism and healing properties of black onyx:

Black onyx (onyx) is associated with mastering emotions, stabilising one's emotional state and stability. Its colour is black and glossy, though it can range in shade from dark grey to deep black. It is associated with the Greek goddess of magic, sorcery and darkness, Hecate. In Celtic magic, it is associated with the goddess of war, fate and magic, Morrigan. It reportedly has protective properties and is associated with courage. It is believed that this stone provides protection against negativity and harmful influences. It may help remove fears and strengthen courage when facing challenges and confrontations in life. According to astrology, it strengthens inner power.

People also seek it out for its calming effects. It reportedly helps manage emotions and cope with stress, anxiety and fatigue. It is said to strengthen self-confidence and remove self-destructive patterns. In alternative medicine, it is used to release the chakras and unblock energy flows in the body. It is also often associated with spiritual connection and finding inner wisdom.

Types of onyx:

There are two types of onyx, including black onyx. They differ not only in colour, but also in their characteristic properties and different effects. These are:

Matte black onyx (onyx matte) is associated with protection, stability and earthly strength. It is said to protect against negative energy, witchcraft, and negative thoughts entering its wearer's life. According to astrology, it helps balance emotional fluctuations and provides a sense of security and calm. It is associated with support and perseverance, as well as resilience in difficult situations. People also seek it out for its supportive effects on inner strength, self-confidence and self-esteem. It is said to help them overcome obstacles and achieve goals. It is also often associated with nature, earth energy and roots, helping to bring out qualities such as patience, perseverance and practicality.

Matte black onyx is suitable for these zodiac signs:

Sagittarius (23 November – 21 December), Capricorn (22 December – 20 January), Scorpio (24 October – 22 November) and Pisces (21 February – 20 March)

Chakras associated with matte black onyx:

1st chakra – root chakra Muladhara: affects stability and security
2nd chakra – sacral chakra Svadhishthana: affects sexuality and fertility
3rd chakra – solar plexus chakra Manipura: affects emotional balance

Black onyx is suitable for these zodiac signs:

Capricorn (22 December – 20 January), Scorpio (24 October – 22 November), Taurus (21 April – 21 May) and Leo (23 July – 22 August)

Also check out our encyclopedia of minerals by zodiac sign and find out more here >>>

Localities, forms of onyx and history:

One of the largest localities of onyx is Brazil. Other important localities include Uruguay, India, Mexico and Italy.

In nature, onyx occurs in solid and massive form, as well as banded, in geodes and druses. Solid and massive forms are used to make statues and cladding, while banded forms are used to make slabs, cladding and tabletops. In any case, natural onyx reportedly has very strong properties. On the Mohs scale, it corresponds to a hardness of 6.5 to 7.

In ancient Egypt, Greece, Mesopotamia and Rome, it was used to make amulets and figurines. It was also often placed inside mummified bodies. It was also regarded as a symbol of wealth and power. The Romans used it to decorate their homes and palaces, particularly columns. It also has a place in Islam, where it is used to decorate objects, as well as jewellery and gravestones.

Did you know?

one of the most famous and impressive projects using black onyx is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates? It is one of the most beautiful and largest religious buildings in the world.

What is black onyx used for and what can you make from it?

Black onyx, with its deep black colour and beautiful shine, is a very popular stone in jewellery-making. It is often used to make rings, as well as bracelets and necklaces combined with pearls, rock crystals or other gemstones. It can be used as a stand-alone stone for earrings, or in combination with other gemstones. It is also used to make brooches, clasps and elegant cufflinks. Black onyx is also widely used to make watch faces, pendants, lockets, figurines, cladding and other decorative elements.

Chakras associated with black onyx:

1st chakra – root chakra Muladhara: affects stability and security
7th chakra – crown chakra Sahasrara: affects the ability to calm the mind

Also check out our encyclopedia of minerals by chakra and find out more here >>>

DISCLAIMER: The information on the properties of gemstones and minerals found on all e-shops operated by Manumi Crafts s.r.o. is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of any illness, and does not replace or serve as an alternative to conventional medical care. All information provided about the potential properties of minerals is based solely on publicly available sources that cannot be factually verified. All gemstones and minerals in our range are intended exclusively for aesthetic and decorative purposes.