DESCRIPTION:

Precious stones hold significant meaning in the lives of people worldwide. Onyx, one of the rarest varieties, is found in various parts of the world and comes in nearly all colors except a few like violet-blue. Onyx, with its flesh-like color, bears a resemblance to fingernails.

Onyx is cryptocrystalline, containing intergrowths of silica minerals quartz and moganite. Another variant, Sardonyx, appears in red and black. Since ancient times, artificial coloring has been applied to achieve red or black hues, as described by Pliny the Elder, who detailed Roman techniques for altering the stone's color. Dyeing treatments are also used, with most black onyx stones on the market being artificially treated. Due to its elegance, black onyx is commonly used in jewelry, favored for its affordability compared to diamonds and sapphires.

The stone is carved, polished, and sold as onyx in places like Mexico and Pakistan. Natural onyx is harder than its artificially produced counterparts. Onyx stones are also carved into jewelry, meeting the demands of jewelers worldwide. Onyx stone beads are particularly admired for their aesthetic appeal. Natural onyx is rare, with much of the supply being artificially treated and sold as jewelry. Historical references show onyx was used in ancient Egypt for bowls and pottery, while green onyx from Brazil adorned sculptures in the early 19th century. The Bible also mentions onyx stones. It's important to note that onyx stone and onyx marble, widely used in decorative items, differ; onyx marble is limestone.

Onyx stones are associated with various myths and believed to emit positive vibrations, alleviate fear, anxiety, and cure ailments. While some consider onyx stones unlucky, they generally possess more positive properties. Noteworthy artifacts include the Great Cameo of France and the Augustus Cameo, both crafted from onyx gemstones. Despite its toughness, onyx requires careful maintenance. Jewelry made from onyx stones should be cleaned with a cloth soaked in soapy water and stored separately from other gemstones to prevent damage. Valued for its unique characteristics, onyx is cherished for both jewelry and decorative ornamentation.

MINING AND PROCESSING:

Mining and processing onyx involves a series of meticulous steps to transform raw materials into finished products:

Exploration:

Initially, geological surveys and prospecting pinpoint potential onyx deposits.

Extraction:

Once identified, extraction methods like open-pit or underground mining retrieve the onyx from the earth.

Transportation:

The extracted onyx is then transported to processing facilities for further refinement.

Cutting:

At the processing plant, specialized saws cut the onyx into blocks or slabs tailored to specific dimensions.

Polishing:

Following cutting, the onyx undergoes extensive polishing using grinding and polishing wheels to achieve a high-gloss finish.

Finishing:

Additional finishing techniques such as sandblasting, etching, or coating may be applied to enhance texture or color.

Transport:

Finished onyx products are finally transported to their destinations, whether they're destined for decorative objects, jewelry, or architectural applications.

Overall, the mining and processing of onyx demands advanced equipment and expertise to ensure that the final product meets exacting standards for quality and appearance.

ONYX PRODUCING COUNTRIES:

Onyx is widely distributed across various regions worldwide, with significant deposits found in countries such as:

Mexico:

Notably sourced from the state of Puebla, Mexico boasts substantial onyx deposits.

Pakistan:

The Chagai district in Balochistan province is a major producer of onyx in Pakistan.

Brazil:

Southern states like Rio Grande do Sul and Bahia host several deposits of onyx in Brazil.

India:

Onyx is found in regions including Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra in India.

United States:

States like Arizona, California, and Utah in the US contain notable onyx deposits.

Iran:

Several regions throughout Iran contribute significantly to the production of onyx.

Other countries with significant onyx deposits include Afghanistan, Egypt, Italy, and Turkey, among others. The distribution of onyx is influenced by geological factors such as suitable rock formations and the presence of minerals and water necessary for its formation.

ECONOMIC VALUE:

Onyx holds significant economic value owing to its distinct beauty and characteristics, rendering it highly sought after for various decorative and ornamental purposes. Several factors contribute to its economic worth:

Rarity:

Onyx is a relatively uncommon mineral, with high-quality deposits being scarce. This rarity enhances its value in markets for decorative objects, jewelry, and architectural features.

Aesthetics:

Onyx exhibits a unique banding pattern and a diverse range of colors, making it particularly appealing for decorative and ornamental applications. Its inherent beauty has established it as a favored material for luxury items such as vases, bowls, sculptures, and fine jewelry.

Durability:

Recognized for its hardness and durability, onyx is resilient against wear and tear. These properties make it a preferred choice for architectural elements like columns, balustrades, and fireplaces, ensuring longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance:

Throughout history, onyx has held spiritual and cultural significance in various traditions, elevating its value and demand in specific markets.

In conclusion, the economic value of onyx is driven by its exceptional beauty, durability, and rarity. Its popularity in high-end markets is reflected in its ability to command premium prices, especially for superior quality specimens.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES:

Onyx is a form of chalcedony, belonging to the quartz group. Like other stones in the chalcedony family, onyx exhibits a smooth, waxy luster and can be found in a wide range of colors, often displaying layered patterns.

Additional Information:

Specific Gravity: 2.55–2.70

Refractive Index: 1.530–1.543

Hardness: 6.5 - 7.0 on Mohs scale

NATURAL OCCURRENCE:

Mexico, Arizona, Algeria

AVAILABLE COLORS:

White and Black

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