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    Onyx

    Photo: Simon Eugster --Simon 14:41, 11 April 2006 (UTC) · CC BY-SA 3.0 · source

    Root ChakraBrief Water

    Onyx

    Velvety bands of protection and strength

    Velvety bands of protection and strength

    About Onyx

    Onyx is night captured in stone. This banded variety of chalcedony forms in layers of black, brown, white and even deep green, created as silica‑rich waters deposit microcrystalline quartz in alternating stripes. When polished, it gleams like lacquer, reflecting light like a still pool under a new moon. Traditionally, onyx has been carried as a shield against negativity and to anchor the wearer in steadfast resolve.

    Metaphysical Properties

    Chakras

    Elements

    Colors

    Mohs hardness 6.5 out of 10. Reference: 1 Talc (softest), 7 Quartz, 10 Diamond (hardest).

    Mohs Hardness

    1Talc
    2Gypsum
    3Calcite
    4Fluorite
    5Apatite
    6Orthoclase
    7Quartz
    8Topaz
    9Corundum
    10Diamond

    Onyx has a Mohs hardness of about 6.5 to 7, similar to other forms of chalcedony. This makes it moderately hard yet still susceptible to scratches from harder minerals.

    Handling: Onyx can chip or dull if subjected to heavy impact or abrasive cleaners. Clean gently with soapy water, avoid prolonged exposure to acids or ammonia, and store away from harder stones.

    Origins

    • Brazil
    • India
    • USA

    How to Use

    Onyx’s moderate hardness and potential dye treatments require gentle cleaning and careful handling. Protecting it from chemicals, heat and impact preserves its smooth polish and natural banding.

    • Use lukewarm water with mild soap and a soft cloth or brush to clean onyx, and dry immediately to prevent moisture damage.
    • Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners and harsh chemicals because onyx may be dyed or porous, and vibrations or heat can cause cracks.
    • Store onyx separately in a padded pouch to prevent scratches from harder gemstones and metals.
    • Keep onyx away from prolonged sunlight and extreme temperature changes to preserve its color and structural integrity.
    • Remove onyx jewelry before strenuous activities or swimming to avoid impact and chemical exposure.

    Care & Cleansing

    Brief Water

    Recommended

    Water rinsePreferred

    Lukewarm water with mild soap effectively cleans onyx without harming its polish

    Smoke cleansingPreferred

    Smoke clears energetic residue without moisture or chemicals

    Sound bowlPreferred

    Sound vibrations cleanse gently without physical contact

    MoonlightPreferred

    Moonlight recharges onyx without heat or UV radiation

    Avoid

    Salt bath

    Salt and prolonged soaking can damage dyes and dry out the stone

    Sunlight

    Prolonged sunlight may fade dyed or natural onyx colors

    Storage

    Store onyx in a soft pouch or lined box away from harder stones. Keep it dry and avoid extreme temperatures.

    Safety

    Silica dust

    high

    Cutting or polishing onyx produces silica dust, which can cause respiratory irritation. Wear protective gear and use ventilation when working with rough stones.

    Not edible

    high

    Onyx is a form of quartz; do not place it in drinking water or use it to make gem elixirs.

    Thermal shock

    medium

    Sudden temperature changes can crack onyx. Avoid steam cleaners and leaving onyx near heaters or in freezers.

    Onyx is for external use only; do not ingest or inhale dust.

    Shop Onyx

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