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This piece weighs 62g and has a diameter of approximately 6.cm and a width of approximately 1.5cm.
In the commercial stone industry, onyx refers a category of stones that are made of layered bands of light-coloured or translucent minerals. Most slabs of onyx are what a geologist would call banded calcite. This same material also goes by the names onyx marble, Mexican onyx, or Egyptian alabaster.
Onyx is commercially classified as a sibling to marble because these two stones have the same mineral content. Onyx is made of calcite, which is the same mineral that makes up limestone, marble, and travertine. In fact, banded calcite is a close cousin of travertine and forms in a similar way.
While granite, quartzite, and marble are all forged deep within the earth’s crust, onyx is born right on the surface. Onyx forms from spring water or groundwater that has an abundance of calcite dissolved in it. When this water emerges at the mouth of a spring, the minerals precipitate out and build a crust of calcite crystals. Over time, more water flows by and more minerals settle out. The variations between the layers are caused by differences in the water flow rate and small amounts of impurities. In its most pure state calcite is white or clear, but it’s easily tinted by minor amounts of other minerals.
The most common colour of onyx is a warm honey colour, which is caused by iron oxide. The flowing layers of onyx reflect subtle variations in the spring water, and add an artistic quality to the patterns and bands. Slabs of onyx are made by slicing down into the layers, revealing thousands of years of deposits.
Beautiful banded onyx has a complex and sometimes contradictory history. The use of onyx dates back to very early civilizations. People have long appreciated it, respected it and even feared it for all of its mysterious powers. It is a lovely, dark crystal with banding and even multiple layers in some types.
Onyx has been utilized in burials to help loved ones in the afterlife and in ceremonies to represent a deep, long-lasting bond. It has been used for thousands of years for scrying and performing magic. Amulets, figurines, cameos, intaglio engravings, seals, stamps and tiles have been made from onyx and red-brown sardonyx. Swords, shields and armor have been adorned with onyx and sardonyx gemstones. Black onyx, inscribed with the name Gad, was the eleventh stone on the High Priest's breastplate.
Onyx meaning is all about a balance of good and bad, pain and pleasure, negative and positive. With proper use, it facilitates an integration of one's dualities. Onyx also helps one find strength, confidence and firm control over one's physical body, emotions and spirituality. Careful utilization of onyx harnesses aggression and turns it around to build emotional and physical strength. One's ability to persist and endure life's ups and downs to remain steady and strong.\n\nBe cautious with onyx as it can retain painful memories and emotional traumas experienced by its owner. It then repeatedly reminds the owner of these painful experiences, causing one to constantly remember and relive the traumatic experience. When used properly, it will release the painful memories, thereby helping one to let go of the experiences and move forward in a more emotionally healthy way. After one undergoes this process, it is said that onyx will turn things around, bringing its owner good fortune and happiness.
Spiritual healing with onyx gives one unwavering focus and willpower. It produces a strong connection with the earth, allowing one to stay well-grounded while looking to a higher power for guidance. This is an excellent crystal for stimulating extrasensory abilities. It provides protection from those who would attempt to cause psychic harm. It is also very good for regression into a past life to explore past life experiences. White onyx is ideal for delving into the angelic realm and the Akashic records.
The emotional healing properties of onyx are all about giving one emotional strength and fortitude. It is ideal for helping one deal with confusing or stressful situations. Onyx is especially useful for soothing anxiety and nervousness. It cools hot tempers, alleviates fear and improves one's self control. This black banded crystal also brings the mind back to a more rational state. People who tend to be flighty, nervous and lacking in confidence will be helped by onyx and sardonyx crystals.