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 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 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 onyx
jewelry with liquid jewelry cleaner or just mild soapy detergent and water.
Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe.
When onyx is best
The 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 onyx collection to learn more about this versatile gem. |
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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 onyx and you’ll be ready for any occasion. |
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