Have you been searching for the perfect piece of jewelry to wear for just about any occasion? If so, you should consider purchasing a black onyx necklace, whether pure onyx or simply a pendant. The coloration of the stone means that it will match just about any item of clothing, and you can dress it up for a black tie affair or down for casual use. Of course, like all jewelry, as a buyer, you want to know what you are purchasing, and that means understanding what constitutes black onyx.
What Is Onyx?
Onyx is a cryptocrystalline form of quartz that actually comes in many colors and often appears in a band of colors. However, a black onyx necklace would make an excellent addition to any jewelry collection. The black form of this stone is fairly common and perhaps the most well-known within its spectrum of colors. The stone occurs naturally, but in many instances, you can find a man-made version, which is simply agate that has been stained to appear like onyx. If you are a purist, you'll want to check on the origin of the stones in the necklace you choose prior to making a purchase.
Beaded Necklaces
Onyx is often shaped into beads, and a black onyx necklace made entirely of beads strung onto a sterling silver chain would accent any outfit. You can dress up your jeans and blouse for a night out with friends, or you can wear it to a wedding with your heels and formal attire. For truly special occasions, you may even consider a collarette, giving you the appearance of a Cleopatra with its carefully designed silver and onyx band, capped with several additional pendants. Because of its coloring, this sort of necklace would be incredibly versatile, and there is no color in the rainbow that it wouldn't match. For frugal spenders who can't justify owning several pieces of fine jewelry, this is the ultimate solution.
Pendants
Perhaps you already own a sterling silver chain that you use as a basic piece of jewelry and are in the market for a way to dress it up. A black onyx necklace could simply consist of the chain, accented with a shining pendant. Black onyx pendants come in a variety of shapes, from a basic square or rectangular inset to a triangle or even a heart. In fact, you may be able to find a more abstract design or something more intricate, such as a leaf, detailed with a silver setting. Black onyx is also often set into gold, the contrast between the two materials quite attractive.
Smooth or Faceted
Because this stone is shaped before being inlaid into a black onyx necklace, you can find both smooth stones and faceted stones. While the black form will not reflect light in the same fashion as a white or tan one, the facets do offer a different appeal, a glow in the brilliance of overhead light. At the same time, smooth beads have a similar appearance to black pearls, and this can create an entirely different personality for the stone.