Onyx: Onyx is actually a type of chalcedony quartz that historically included almost all colors from white to dark brown and black. Today, the most common variety is known as Black Onyx.
Onyx was said to be very popular with the ancient Greeks and Romans. The name derived from the Greek word Onux, meaning fingernail. There is a Greek myth that tells the story of Cupid cutting the fingernails of Venus while she was sleeping, and then scattering them on the sand. The clippings were said to have turned into stone or Onyx.
Black Onyx was frequently used in England during the reign of Queen Victoria after her husband, Prince Albert, died. It was said that the Queen went into deep mourning for 21 years and that the jewelry reflected a more somber tone utilizing the darker stones of Jet, Black Onyx and Garnet.
Onyx was one of the gemstones on the breastplate of Aaron, the first high priest of the Hebrews. Many gem scholars concur that the custom of birthstones arose from the breastplate, which was a ceremonial religious garment adorned with twelve gemstones that symbolized the twelve tribes of Israel, as well as the twelve signs of the zodiac and the twelve months of the year. Onyx has also been recorded as the guardian angel Gabriel's talisman stone.
In India, Onyx is believed to have the power to calm the passions of love and to assist the wearer in communications and public speaking.
Color: Most commonly found stones are black or brown with white bands, but can be found in red, orange, or honey colored.
Traditional Birthstone: N/A
Zodiac or Magical Birthstone: A good stone for Leo and Capricorn
Signification: Onyx is said to be effective in working with all Chakras. It's known as a grounding stone and can be helpful in strengthening the connection to Mother Earth. It is still considered a powerful memorial stone and its healing energies can assist with the mourning process.