Black onyx jewelry
It all started with a manicure.
"Onyx" comes from the Greek word for fingernail. According to the ancient Greek story, one day Cupid decided to trim Venus’ fingernails while she was sleeping. He left the clippings scattered on the sand, where the Fates turned them into black onyx so that no part of the goddess’s body would ever disappear.
Today, onyx is treasured for its deep black color. It coordinates with just about any of the colors in your wardrobe.
Onyx is an alternative birthstone to blue topaz for December.
Color and pedigree
Most onyx is deep, opaque black, and sometimes it can have white bands running through it. Today, all black onyx is dyed. Brazil, India, Madagascar and Uruguay are leading producers.
Taking it home
You’ll find that onyx jewelry looks great with everything in your wardrobe; fortunately, it can withstand a lot of wear. It rates 6½ to 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale (10 is hard as diamonds), so it’s moderately resistant to scratches. It resists chipping and breaking well, too. You can clean black onyx jewelry with liquid jewelry cleaner or just mild soapy detergent and water. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe.
When black onyx is bestThe little black onyx ring is just like the little black dress. It’s simple, extremely elegant, goes with everything, and never goes out of style. This is a gemstone to take seriously. Black onyx jewelry is impressive with business dress, with black evening wear, with anything formal. And of course, it’s a popular gem for men. Shop our black onyx collection to learn more about this versatile gem. |  | Onyx jewelry was popular in the 20’s, and widely used in Art Deco jewelry design. Maybe that’s why it feels contemporary and retro, all at once. Treat yourself to some black onyx and you’ll be ready for any occasion. |  | |
