gemstone

Black stone bead strand (possibly black onyx or hematite)

Unidentifiable from the image; candidates include chalcedony (SiO₂, black onyx) or hematite (Fe₂O₃)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Polished, nearly spherical black beads with a glossy luster; hardness, crystal structure, cleavage, and specific gravity cannot be determined visually. Bead holes and uniform shaping indicate cut and polished material.

Identified October 9, 2026More gemstone →

Explore Black stone bead strand (possibly black onyx or hematite) in the encyclopedia →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

If onyx, formed as silica-rich chalcedony in cavities or veins; if hematite, formed by iron-oxide precipitation or alteration. Geological age and locality are unknown.

Uses & applications

Likely jewelry beads; similar materials are also used for carvings and decorative objects.

Geological facts

Black beads may also be dyed agate, glass, or another stone, so appearance alone cannot confirm the material.

Field identification & locations

A hardness or specific-gravity test, magnification, and inspection of bead interiors can help distinguish candidates; a gemologist can identify them reliably. The pictured strand appears to be a jewelry component rather than a raw specimen.