Gemstone Spotlight: Onyx

Onyx can be found as a black stone with white bands or in hues of green, red, orange and black, amongst others. It's layers can be cut to show a contrast, making it a distinctive, striking stone. 

Onyx is known as a protective, grounding stone and legend has it that the more negative energy it absorbs, the darker it gets. In ancient Greek, the word onyx means a fingernail or claw, giving it a strong, ferocious energy.

Onyx has many physical and emotional properties. It’s a protective, strength-giving stone which protects against evil energy, and is said to actually absorb it, getting darker as it does so. It motivates, drives forward and energises it’s wearer, making it great for new chapters or tough times. It’s often used in Feng Shui to bring protection to the home. 

Remember we mentioned that Onyx comes in lots of different hues? One of our favourites is this stunning, vibrant green. It’s the sort of shade that you can’t help but smile at. Our Mini Round Stilla Green Onyx Earrings are an exquisite pop of colour for your ears whilst our Stilla Ring is minimal, contemporary and uplifting. Green Onyx is said to symbolise soothing, purity and positivity. Yes please. 

Onyx is said to help with headaches as well as strengthen the eyes and optic nerve. It’s said to have a connection with the base chakra, uniting us with the natural world beneath our feet and even helping with leg, knee and foot problems. 

Onyx is associated with sleep and keeping the stone near your bed is thought to stop night terrors. It’s also said to help unite the two distinct sides of a personality and make wise decisions. Healing old injuries, dealing with grief and improving focus make Onyx a powerful stone.

Onyx is actually formed naturally in caves as stalactites and stalagmites. It’s mined in many countries including the US, Brazil, Madagascar and Pakistan.

In ancient Greek, Onyx means a fingernail or claw. This is because of its stripes which resemble claws, but also because of a bizarre legend involving Cupid and some fingernails…Intrigued? According to Roman mythology, Cupid clipped the fingernails of the Goddess Venus whilst she was asleep. To immortalise her, the Fates turned her fingernails to stone. And so Onyx was born. 

Onyx has lots of helpful physical and mental properties and as a stone thought to absorb negative energy, it’s helpful in most situations. Those struggling with sleep, decision making and the influence of toxic energy are said to benefit from wearing Onyx. The stone is said to balance out volatile Leos as well as give Virgos luck, love and money. 

Although Onyx isn’t officially associated with the birthstone chart it is ruled by Mars and Saturn and linked to Leo. It is said the bold, strident nature of a Leo can be balanced and grounded by Black Onyx.

Feeling inspired to embrace your dark side? Discover more black gemstone jewellery.