How Much is Onyx Worth by Color?

For millennia, onyx has been a popular jewelry stone. So, if you have a specimen at hand and are wondering how much is onyx worth, then you are at the right place. Today, we will discuss the worth of onyx and its different colors.

Onyx has captured the hearts of collectors for centuries for its captivating beauty and fascinating history. The gem exudes a sense of elegance and sophistication.

It is mostly used as a statement piece in jewelry, or for decorative purposes in architecture. Whether you are looking to buy onyx or own a jewelry piece with the gemstone, here’s all you need to know about its worth.

What is Onyx

Onyx is a variety of chalcedony, a type of cryptocrystalline quartz. It is formed in the cavities of lava, typically in volcanic rocks. Some gems are pure without any bands, while some often come with bands of various colors.

The stone’s bands are formed by the deposition of different minerals, and the variations in color can be attributed to the presence of impurities. The bands can range from black and white to a spectrum of hues, creating a mesmerizing visual effect.

Onyx itself typically comes in black and white, but there are some rare variations such as red, blue, green, brown, and gray.

Also read:

• How much is fluorite worth
• How much is calcite worth
• How much is citrine worth
• How much is coral worth

How Much is Onyx Worth?

Let’s take a look at the different colors of Onyx and how much they are worth.

Black Onyx

Black onyx, with its deep, velvety black hue, is one of the most sought-after varieties of this gemstone. The intense black color is often accented by bands of white or other colors, adding to its visual appeal.

It is widely used in the crafting of jewelry, particularly in rings, necklaces, and earrings. Its association with sophistication and elegance makes it a popular choice for both contemporary and vintage designs.

How much is black onyx worth: Pure black onyx without any impurities is worth $150 to $500 per carat.

White Onyx

White onyx, characterized by its milky white or translucent appearance, exudes a subtle and timeless beauty. It is mostly used in jewelry as a complement to other gemstones, creating striking contrasts.

The stone’s translucency allows for unique lighting effects, making it a preferred choice for decorative items such as lamps and sculptures.

How much is white onyx worth: Pure white onyx that does not have any impurities like iron, manganese, and other elements is worth around $50 to $500 per carat.

Sardonyx

Sardonyx is a variety of onyx that has bands of red or brown on a white background. The combination of these contrasting colors adds a layer of complexity and depth to the stone, making it highly prized in the world of gem collecting.

Sardonyx has been historically used in engraved cameos and seals due to its layered composition, allowing for intricate designs to be etched into the stone.

In the market, sardonyx is appreciated for its versatility and is often used in both traditional and contemporary jewelry designs.

How much is sardonyx worth: Sardonyx costs around $35 to $250 per carat depending on the color of bands and patterns.

Blue Onyx

Blue onyx, with its calming and serene coloration, is a captivating variation of this gemstone. The blue hues in onyx are typically the result of the presence of iron minerals.

In jewelry, blue onyx is mostly used to create unique and eye-catching pieces. They are used to make rings, earrings, and pendants.

The value of blue onyx is determined by the intensity and uniformity of the blue color, as well as the overall quality of the stone.

How much is blue onyx worth: Blue onyx without any bands and a saturated color is worth around $35 to $500 per carat.

Carnelian Onyx

Carnelian onyx is a variation that combines the rich orange hues of carnelian with the distinctive banding of onyx. The result is a stone that boasts warm and vibrant tones, making it a favored choice for those seeking a bold and expressive gemstone.

Stones with uniform orange bands are highly valued. It is often used in jewelry designs that celebrate the dynamic interplay of color in rings, and pendants.

How much is carnelian onyx worth: Depending on the quality of the stone, carnelian onyx is available for around $30 to $400 per carat.

Green Onyx

Although not common, green onyx is another color that is mostly used in jewelry. With its soothing green hues, green onyx adds a touch of nature-inspired elegance to the world of gemstones.

The green coloration is typically the result of the presence of nickel or other minerals.  In jewelry, green onyx is used to create pieces that evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony. It’s used in rings, earrings, pendants, and even bracelets.

How much is green onyx worth: The scarcity of high-quality green onyx can contribute to its high price. It costs around $200 to $600 per carat.

Factors that Determine the Price of Onyx

Here are some common factors that determine the price and value of onyx.

Color

The color of the onyx is a primary factor influencing its value. Stones with vibrant and consistent colors are generally more sought after, commanding higher prices in the market.

Transparency

Transparency refers to the degree to which light can pass through the onyx. In general, the more translucent the stone, the higher its value.

In the case of onyx, varieties like black onyx are also highly sought after because of their intense colors.

Banding

The distinctive banding patterns in onyx contribute to its visual appeal. The value of onyx is influenced by the clarity and uniformity of these bands.

Stones with well-defined and evenly spaced bands are generally considered more valuable than those with irregular or poorly defined patterns.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the onyx also determines its value. Larger stones are generally rarer and can command higher prices, especially if they exhibit high-quality color and clarity.

Similarly, well-cut stones are aesthetically pleasing, thus demanding more value in the market.

Rarity

Rare onyx are more expensive than common ones. Variations such as blue onyx or green onyx, which may be less common compared to black onyx, can command higher prices due to their scarcity.

Treatment

While onyx is generally considered a durable and stable gemstone, some varieties may undergo treatments to enhance their color or clarity. Untreated, natural onyx is often more highly valued, as it represents the true characteristics of the stone.

Origin

Onyx from certain regions are more renowned, and thus more expensive than others. Collectors often seek out onyx from notable locations, contributing to the stone’s overall desirability and value.

Market Demand

Market demand can also influence the price of onyx. Fashion trends, cultural preferences, and shifts in consumer tastes can impact the popularity of specific onyx varieties.

Certification

If your gem is certified by gemological laboratories, it can add credibility and assurance regarding the authenticity and quality of an onyx gemstone.

Buyers often seek certified stones, and gemstones accompanied by recognized certificates may command higher prices in the market.

Conclusion

Now you know how much is onyx worth. From the deep richness of black onyx to the vibrant hues of sardonyx and the calming tones of green onyx, each variation possesses its unique charm.

There are several factors that determine the price of onyx as discussed above. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions when purchasing or selling your onyx specimen.