Onyx is a distinctive and beautiful semi-precious gemstone that is prized for its unique appearance and durability.
The stone is unique in that it comes in a variety of colors, ranging from white to black and even shades of green, blue, and pink.
But what color is onyx? This guide will explore the various colors of onyx and their characteristics to help you make an informed decision when selecting the perfect stone for your needs.
What Colors Does Onyx Come In?
Onyx is a form of chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz, and is composed of bands of different colors. The most common colors of onyx are black, white, and gray, but the stone can also be found in shades of green, blue, pink, and brown. The color of the stone depends on the presence of other minerals in the stone, such as iron or magnesium.
What Color is Black Onyx?
Black onyx is an opaque stone with a deep, velvety black color. It is the most common color of onyx and is often used in jewelry or decorative art pieces. The black hue comes from the presence of iron in the stone, and the bands of color can be seen as lighter and darker shades of black.
What Color is White Onyx?
White onyx is an opaque stone with a milky white color. This type of onyx is composed of bands of white, gray, and sometimes black, which give it a unique marbled appearance. White onyx is often used in jewelry or for decorative items such as vases and statues.
What Color is Green Onyx?
Green onyx is an opaque stone with a unique green or blue-green color. This type of onyx is composed of bands of green, white, and sometimes black, which give it a unique marbled appearance. Green onyx is often used in jewelry or for decorative items such as vases and statues.
What Color is Blue Onyx?
Blue onyx is an opaque stone with a unique blue or gray-blue color. This type of onyx is composed of bands of blue, white, and sometimes black, which give it a unique marbled appearance. Blue onyx is often used in jewelry or for decorative items such as vases and statues.
What Color is Pink Onyx?
Pink onyx is an opaque stone with a unique pink or salmon-pink color. This type of onyx is composed of bands of pink, white, and sometimes black, which give it a unique marbled appearance. Pink onyx is often used in jewelry or for decorative items such as vases and statues.
What Color is Brown Onyx?
Brown onyx is an opaque stone with a unique brown or reddish-brown color. This type of onyx is composed of bands of brown, white, and sometimes black, which give it a unique marbled appearance. Brown onyx is often used in jewelry or for decorative items such as vases and statues.
What Color is Gray Onyx?
Gray onyx is an opaque stone with a unique gray or silver-gray color. This type of onyx is composed of bands of gray, white, and sometimes black, which give it a unique marbled appearance. Gray onyx is often used in jewelry or for decorative items such as vases and statues.
How to Care For Onyx
Onyx is a durable stone and is relatively easy to maintain. To clean onyx, simply use a damp cloth and a mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Onyx should also be sealed periodically to prevent water and oil from seeping into the stone and causing discoloration.
What to Consider When Buying Onyx
When buying onyx, it is important to consider the quality of the stone. Onyx is available in a variety of grades, ranging from low grade to high grade. Higher grade stones are more expensive, but they are also more durable and have fewer inclusions. It is also important to consider the size and shape of the stone, as well as the type of setting you would like.
Conclusion
Onyx is a beautiful and unique gemstone that comes in a variety of colors, ranging from white to black and even shades of green, blue, and pink.
The color of onyx depends on the presence of other minerals in the stone, such as iron or magnesium. While onyx is a relatively durable stone, it should be cared for properly to ensure it retains its beauty.
When selecting onyx, it is important to consider the quality, size, shape, and setting of the stone to ensure you get the perfect piece for your needs.