mineral
Black Onyx (in jewelry setting)
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 6.5–7; opaque jet-black color with a vitreous to waxy luster and cryptocrystalline structure.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 6.5–7; opaque jet-black color with a vitreous to waxy luster and cryptocrystalline structure.
Formation & geological history
Formed in cavities and gas pockets of volcanic lavas via low-temperature precipitation of silica-rich waters.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used as an ornamental gemstone in rings, earrings, pendants, and carvings.
Geological facts
Natural solid black onyx is rare; most commercial specimens are parallel-banded chalcedony dyed black since antiquity.
Field identification & locations
Recognized by its smooth polish, lack of visible grain, and deep uniform black color mounted in metalwork.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous