History & Origin
Onyx, with its natural elegance and imposing presence, has a history spanning millennia. This stone, a symbol of strength and protection, has been used in many ancient civilizations, from the Egyptians to the Romans to the Greeks, for its unique properties and striking beauty. The ancients attributed to onyx the power to protect against negative energies and to strengthen the determination and endurance of its wearer.
The fascination with onyx has spanned the ages, embedding itself in history as a stone of power and prestige. Nobles and warriors adorned it as a talisman of protection and a symbol of courage. Onyx was also carved into intaglios and cameos, demonstrating the extraordinary skills of the artisans of the time and their dedication to capturing the intrinsic beauty of this dark stone.
Origin
Onyx is mined in various parts of the world, each offering unique variations that enrich the diversity of this stone. The main deposits are in Brazil, India, Madagascar and Pakistan, although onyx is also mined in Italy, Mexico, the United States and Uruguay.
Brazil, with its vast mineral resources, is one of the largest suppliers of onyx, producing a wide range of colors and patterns. India, known for its rich tradition in gemstone work, offers onyx primarily in deep, enigmatic black tones. Madagascar, with its unique geology, is a source of onyx with particularly distinctive patterns, while Pakistan is renowned for its green onyx, a less common but equally captivating variety.
Each region brings its unique twist to onyx, enriching the market with a variety of choices for jewelry lovers and gemstone collectors. This geographic diversity not only speaks to the natural beauty of our world, but also offers jewelry designers, like Aglaia, the opportunity to create truly unique pieces.
Features
In addition to its majestic appearance, onyx is distinguished by its remarkable physical characteristics. The stone is famous for its parallel bands of contrasting colors, although the most common and sought-after varieties are a deep, uniform black. This variation in bands and colors makes each piece of onyx a natural, one-of-a-kind work of art.
Hardness
The hardness of onyx, measured between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale, makes it a durable stone suitable for a variety of jewelry uses. Its ability to be polished to a shimmering shine also makes it a preferred choice for jewelry pieces where shine and refinement are sought.
Virtues & Properties
Spiritual benefits
The virtues of onyx extend far beyond its beauty. On an emotional and spiritual level, onyx is known to provide strength and support during difficult times, promoting emotional stability and resilience. This stone encourages a sense of responsibility and can help alleviate feelings of sadness and fear.
Physical benefits
On a physical level, onyx is credited with beneficial health properties, including improving circulation and strengthening the immune system. It is also used to support the healing of disorders related to bones and bone marrow.
Use
Onyx offers exceptional versatility in jewelry, lending itself to creations ranging from classic, elegant pieces to contemporary, bold designs. At Aglaia, we harness this versatility to offer a range of onyx jewelry that captivates and charms. Whether incorporated into rings, necklaces, bracelets, or earrings, onyx brings a touch of sophistication and mystery.
Our onyx jewelry collection is designed for those looking to express their inner strength and natural elegance. Each piece is a tribute to the timeless beauty of onyx, offering its wearer not only an exceptional piece of jewelry but also a life companion enriched with protective and strengthening virtues.
Interview
For your onyx jewelry to maintain its splendor, proper care is essential. Onyx should be cleaned carefully, using lukewarm water and mild soap, and dried with a soft cloth to avoid scratching. Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and protect your onyx from excessive exposure to direct sunlight, which could alter its color and luster.
It is advisable to store your onyx pieces separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches. Regular care will ensure that your onyx jewelry lasts for generations, retaining its beauty and protective energy.
