The natural beauty of the earth is a majestic thing. In a world of full of electronics, synthetics, and other man made materials, it is easy to overlook the gorgeous materials contained within the earth. Onyx is an example of a beautiful product of nature. You can find this diverse mineral everywhere, faceted pieces set it jewelry and large slabs used for countertops.
The Mineral
Onyx is a banded type of chalcedony. Chalcedony is a cryptocrystalline silica made of a composition of the silica minerals quartz and moganite. It has a waxy luster and semitransparent appearance. It comes in many varieties other than the one already mentioned, such as agate, carnelian, and heliotrope. The onyx variety comes in many shades, except for blues and purples. Often, the mineral will have white or black bands.
The History
The mineral can be found in artifacts dating back to the Second Dynasty in Egypt, which dates between 2890 and 2686 BC. Ancient Romans and Greeks used the mineral in carvings and jewelry. There is even mention of it in the Bible, Genesis 2:12 reads, “and the gold of that land is good: there is bdellium and the onyx stone”. In 1930, large onyx slabs were used to create beautiful inner walls in the famous Villa Tugendhat building.
Modern Use
It is easy to find in a piece of jewelry, but if you really want to see how beautiful the mineral can be, look for an Onyx Naples FL backsplash or countertop. The wide range of pastel colors swirl together to make each piece unique and beautiful. The translucent quality of the mineral sets it apart from all other decor materials. The translucent nature gives you the option to backlight the slabs, an option that can only be taken advantage of with this beautiful mineral.
If you would like to add a little drama to your décor, consider using this versatile and striking material. The professionals at American Granite Company, provide the highest quality materials and a knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the best piece for your needs.
