(Black onyx is uniformly black chalcedony.) When the base is brown, it is called sardonyx while carnelian-onyx has a red base. When the stone has a black base and a white upper layer, it's called onyx. Its multi-layered structure is similar to that of agates. Black Onyx Geological Properties Onyx is a form of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline quartz formed in the gas cavities of lava. The Romans associated onyx with courage and it is thought to be useful when one is defending him/herself against unfair criticism. It is said to be useful in fighting basic fears and helping to move beyond bad relationships-as well as to heal old emotional wounds. Black onyx is thought by some to have protective qualities, making it advantageous to carry when traveling. Black Onyx Metaphysical Properties Black has been associated with regeneration and new beginnings. While ruby is the birthstone for July, black onyx is an alternative stone for the month and is associated with the Babylonian Zodiac sign of Capricorn. In the Middle East, onyx was associated with sorcerers. Engravings with a negative picture are called intaglios and those with raised image are cameos. The patterns were cut in negative relief. The Romans were experts at glyptography (the carving of layered stones to reveal different colors) and crafted beautiful seals from onyx (white layer over black base) and sardonyx (white layer over reddish-brown base). The Fates turned those clippings into stone to prevent even a part of Venus from dying. According to myth, Cupid trimmed the nails of the sleeping goddess Venus. Black Onyx History The name 'onyx' comes from the Greek word for 'fingernail,' referring to the translucence of the white-colored layer of this multi-layered stone.

Black onyx spiritual meaning