What is onyx?

March 11, 2020

If you’ve looked through our catalog recently, you might have noticed something special. We’ve added several new colors and types of onyx to our semi-precious stone slabs collection. Today, we’re learning more about this rare and beautiful stone.

What is onyx?

Onyx is a specific type of chalcedony, a mineral that’s found on almost every continent. Most onyx slabs for kitchen or bathroom countertops have classic, parallel bands of black and white.

However, there are other colors available! Onyx occurs naturally in many different colors, including sardonyx, which has deep red and white stripes. You can also find artificially colored onyx.

We have a beautiful range of onyx colors and patterns in stock, including white, gold, caramel and soft green jade.

Pros and cons of onyx countertops

Onyx is a semi-precious stone – so it is a luxury. Its colors, patterns and shine make an eye-catching statement in your kitchen and bathroom design. For maximum effect, you can install lights under or around a piece of onyx to highlight its tones.

Onyx is more fragile than some other stone countertops, such as granite or marble. It can be expensive, and it has to be maintained properly. The design blog Return On Interiors suggests using onyx in your guest bathrooms, where it will look gorgeous but receive less day-to-day use. Alternatively, you could use an onyx remnant for a small sculpture or the top of a bathroom vanity.

To learn more about using onyx slabs in your home renovation, visit or contact us today!