BLACK ONYX NECKLACE: Its Popularity and Various Styles

The Gem in a Black Onyx Necklace

First, what is black onyx? Onyx is a banded variety of chalcedony, which is a translucent type of quartz. Typically polished to a smooth texture, this gem exhibits a rich black color. Though the stone can have white or gray bands, pure black onyx is the most sought-after.

Onyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for everyday jewelry.

Popularity of Black Onyx Necklace

Is a black onyx necklace popular? The answer is yes, black onyx necklaces are quite popular.

Often used in both men’s and women’s jewelry, black onyx is a versatile and elegant gemstone. Its black color makes it a timeless and classic choice that can be dressed up for formal occasions, or dressed down for everyday wear.

Additionally, the rise of minimalist and monochromatic fashion trends has contributed to the ongoing popularity of black onyx jewelry.

Cameos for Black Onyx Necklace

The use of black onyx in jewelry — including necklaces — goes back hundreds of years across different cultures. Particularly notable were the Greeks and Romans, who valued onyx for its black and white bands. They used these contrasting layers to carve out well-defined images for their cameos.

The ancients skillfully carved intricate portraits, mythological scenes and symbolic motifs into onyx. By carving through its black and white layers, artisans created a striking contrast between the image and the background. Often depicting gods, goddesses and emperors, these engraved gems ended up as personal ornaments, including pendants for necklaces. They were precious possessions, which served as status symbols.

Black Onyx Necklace for Mourning Jewelry

During the Victorian era in England, black onyx became especially popular in mourning jewelry. Queen Victoria herself popularized the use of black onyx in commemorating deceased loved ones.

The queen’s profound mourning after the death of her husband, Prince Albert, in 1861 set a trend for mourning attire and jewelry. Victoria wore black clothing and accessories for the rest of her life, setting a somber yet fashionable example for her subjects.

As part of her mourning attire, Queen Victoria popularized the use of black gemstones, with black onyx being a prominent choice. Its deep, opaque black color was suitable for mourning, where the stone represented grief and solemnity.

Given her status, Queen Victoria’s fashion choices were widely emulated by the public. Thus, mourning jewelry became a significant aspect of Victorian fashion, and black onyx figured widely in jewelry, including necklaces.

Moreover, the trend Queen Victoria set had a lasting impact on jewelry design. Even after the Victorian era, black onyx continued to be a popular choice, widely used even beyond mourning jewelry.

Metaphysical Properties of a Black Onyx Necklace

Another reason for the popularity of black onyx necklace is the metaphysical properties associated with the stone. While there used to be negative connotations attached to black onyx as there were to anything black, the positive symbolisms of the stone eventually prevailed.

1. Protection

Black onyx is widely believed to provide protection against negative energy and harmful influences. The stone creates a shield around the wearer, thus blocking out negativity and preventing the drain of personal energy.

2. Grounding

Black onyx has grounding properties, helping individuals remain focused and stable. The stone anchors the wearer to reality, thus promoting a sense of balance.

3. Strength and Resilience

The stone’s deep, solid black color symbolizes strength, power and authority. Thus, black onyx is often associated with strength, both physical and mental. The stone imparts the wearer with resilience and fortitude, helping them face challenges with confidence and determination.

4. Emotional Healing

The stone aids in emotional healing, providing support during times of stress and grief. Black onyx helps release past traumas and sorrows, thus promoting emotional well-being and clarity.

5. Self-Control and Discipline

Black onyx enhances self-control and discipline. The stone is suitable for those seeking to break bad habits, make positive changes and maintain focus on their goals.

6. Intuition and Insight

Some believe that black onyx enhances intuition and insight, helping the wearer to see the truth and understand complex situations. The stone provides clarity and encourages wise decision-making.

Designs for Black Onyx Necklace

Black onyx necklace comes in a variety of styles and designs, each offering a unique appeal.

1. Solitaire Pendant

This simple, elegant design features a single black onyx as the focal point. The stone often comes in a classic shape – like oval, round and teardrop – and set in a metal setting, typically silver or gold.

2. Beaded Necklace

This style features multiple black onyx beads strung together. The beads can be uniform in size, graduated, or of entirely different shapes. Beaded necklaces can be worn alone or layered with other necklaces for a more bohemian or eclectic style.

3. Statement Necklace

A bold design that makes a strong visual impact, this style often features large black onyx stones, or a combination of black onyx with other gemstones. By adding drama to an outfit, statement necklaces are perfect for special occasions.

4. Vintage or Antique Style

Inspired by historical designs, these necklaces often feature intricate metalwork and ornate settings. To create a vintage look, black onyx commonly pairs with marcasite, pearls or filigree details in silver or gold.

5. Modern Geometric Designs

These contemporary designs incorporate geometric shapes and clean lines. They often feature black onyx in minimalist settings, highlighting the stone’s sleek, modern appeal.

6. Choker

This close-fitting necklace sits high on the neck, and may display a series of black onyx stones or a single central stone. Chokers can be simple or more elaborate, incorporating intricate metalwork or different beads.

7. Locket Necklace

This locket incorporates black onyx either as the central stone or as decorative elements. Lockets can hold sentimental items or photos, and exude a touch of vintage charm.

8. Bib Necklace

This dramatic style covers a significant portion of the chest area, and often features multiple rows of black onyx. Bib necklaces make a bold fashion statement.

9. Tassel Necklace

Featuring a tassel made of black onyx beads — sometimes combined with silk threads — this style adds an elegant, playful touch, and works well with both casual and formal outfits.

10. Healing or Spiritual Necklace

Designed with metaphysical properties in mind, these necklaces often include black onyx combined with other stones believed to enhance its protective and grounding qualities. These designs may incorporate symbols like the Tree of Life, chakras or other spiritual motifs.

11. Layered Necklace

This design features multiple strands of black onyx beads in varying lengths. Such layered style creates a sophisticated look.

Craftsmanship of Black Onyx Necklace

Creating a black onyx necklace involves a variety of jewelry-making techniques to transform raw stones into beautiful, wearable art.

1. Stone Cutting and Polishing

Black onyx is often shaped into beads or cabochons, which are smooth rounded stones with a flat back. Although less common for black onyx, some designs feature faceted stones, having multiple flat surfaces that enhance the stone’s sparkle. These cut stones are polished to achieve a high gloss finish, bringing out their natural beauty and shine.

2. Drilling and Stringing Beads

Many black onyx stones are drilled to create beads. Precision drilling ensures uniform sizes and proper alignment of the drill holes. These beads are strung together using wire or other materials.

3. Setting

Black onyx stones may be set into metal settings, which can be simple prongs, bezels or more intricate designs. The setting must securely hold the stone while enhancing its appearance.

4. Wire Wrapping

In this technique, metal wires wrap around the black onyx stones, creating intricate designs and securing the stones without the need for traditional settings. Wire wrapping may also come in handy when connecting a pendant to the necklace.

5. Design and Assembly

The overall design process involves selecting the arrangement of stones and metal components to create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing black onyx necklace. This step requires creativity and an eye for beauty and detail.

6. Clasp and Finding Attachment

Attaching clasps and other findings – like jump rings, bails and connectors – is crucial for the functionality and wearability of a black onyx necklace. These components are often soldered or mechanically attached to ensure a secure fit.

Choosing a Black Onyx Necklace

Choosing a black onyx necklace involves several considerations to ensure you find a piece that suits your style, budget and needs.

1. Quality of the Stone

First, assess the quality of the black onyx stone. Look for a deep, uniform black color with a smooth, polished surface. The cut of the stone – whether it’s a cabochon, bead or faceted gem – should be symmetrical and well-proportioned.

2. Style and Design

Consider the style and design of the necklace. Pendants with a single black onyx stone offer a classic look, while beaded necklaces can also provide a viable option.

3. Metal and Setting

The type of metal and setting is also important. Choose between gold, silver or other metals based on your preference and their compatibility with your skin tone. Ensure the setting is secure and enhances the stone’s beauty.

4. Length of the Necklace

The length of the necklace affects its overall look and how it complements your attire.

Choker

14-16 inches in length, chokers fit tightly around the neck.

Princess

17-19 inches, princess necklaces sit at the collarbone

Matinee

20-24 inches, matinee necklace falls between the collarbone and bust.

Opera

28-36 inches, opera necklace sits at or below the bust.

Rope

37 inches or longer, rope can be worn long or doubled up.

5. Craftsmanship of the Necklace

Evaluate the craftsmanship of the necklace by checking for well-crafted details, smooth edges and secure settings.

6. Occasion and Use

Consider the occasion and intended use. For everyday wear, choose a durable and versatile design. For special occasions, you can opt for more elaborate or statement pieces. If you’re interested in the metaphysical properties of black onyx, select a design that aligns with your goals.

7. Budget

Set a budget beforehand to narrow down your options, as black onyx necklaces can range from affordable fashion jewelry to high-end designer pieces.

8. Maintenance and Care

Maintenance and care are crucial for preserving the necklace’s appearance. Choose a design that is easy to clean.

Caring for Black Onyx Necklace

Proper care and maintenance of a black onyx necklace are essential to preserve its beauty and longevity. By following these tips, you can keep your black onyx necklace looking beautiful for years to come.

1. Regular Cleaning

Gently clean the black onyx necklace with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the stone or the metal. If necessary, you can use a mild soap and warm water to clean the necklace. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue, and dry with a soft cloth.

2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Keep your black onyx necklace away from harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners, bleach and chlorine. These substances can damage the stone and the metals. Also, avoid contact with perfumes, hairsprays and lotions, as these can leave a residue that dull the appearance of the stone.

3. Proper Storage

To prevent scratches from other jewelry, store your black onyx necklace in a soft, lined jewelry box or pouch.

4. Handle with Care

Remove your black onyx necklace before engaging in activities that could expose it to physical stress, such as sports, heavy lifting or gardening.

5. Periodic Inspection

Regularly inspect the necklace for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose stones or damaged settings. Ensure that clasps and other fastenings are secure to prevent the necklace from accidentally falling off. If you notice any issues, take the necklace to a jeweler for repair.

The Beauty of Black Onyx Necklace

With their deep neutral color, black onyx necklaces continue to be popular in jewelry. The stone’s ability to pair well with various metals and other gemstones ensures its ongoing appeal in both classic and innovative designs. Get yours now, and let the protective appeal of a black onyx necklace add a touch of meaning to your jewelry.