History & Origin
Onyx, with its natural elegance and imposing presence, has a history that spans millennia. A symbol of strength and protection, this stone 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 strengthen the wearer's determination and endurance.
The fascination with onyx has spanned the ages, becoming embedded 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 craftsmen of the time and their dedication to capturing the intrinsic beauty of this dark stone.
Provenance
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 USA and Uruguay.
Brazil, with its vast mineral resources, is one of the biggest suppliers of onyx, producing a wide range of colors and patterns. India, known for its rich tradition in gemstone work, offers onyx mainly 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 own unique touch to onyx, enriching the market with a variety of choices for jewelry lovers and gemstone collectors alike. This geographical diversity not only testifies 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 allure, onyx stands out for its remarkable physical characteristics. The stone is famous for its parallel bands of contrasting colors, although the most common and sought-after varieties are of a deep, uniform black. This variation in bands and colors makes each piece of onyx a unique, natural work of art.
Hardness
Onyx's hardness, measured between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale, makes it a resistant stone suitable for a variety of jewelry uses. Its ability to be polished to a mirror-like luster also makes it a preferred choice for jewelry pieces where sparkle and refinement are desired.
Benefits & Properties
Spiritual benefits
The benefits of onyx extend far beyond its beauty. Emotionally and spiritually, onyx is reputed to provide strength and support in difficult times, fostering 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 healing of bone and bone marrow disorders.
Use
Onyx offers exceptional versatility in jewelry, lending itself to creations ranging from classic, elegant pieces to bold, contemporary designs. At Aglaia, we exploit this versatility to offer a range of onyx jewels that captivate and charm. Whether incorporated into rings, necklaces, bracelets or earrings, onyx adds a touch of sophistication and mystery.
Our onyx jewelry collection is designed for those seeking 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 fortifying benefits.
Care
To ensure that your onyx jewelry retains its splendor, proper care is essential. Onyx should be cleaned with care, using lukewarm water and mild soap, and dried with a soft cloth to prevent scratching. Avoid the use of harsh chemicals, and protect your onyx from excessive exposure to direct sunlight, which can 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.
