A Brief Guide to Onyx Marble

7 min readJan 19, 2024

Onyx marble is a mysterious stone that weaves a complex tapestry of geological history and natural art. It stands out for its unique crystal structure, created after hundreds of millions of years of intense metamorphosis and recrystallization. Onyx marble exudes a warm glow and is known for its refined decorative effect.

Onyx marble is notable for its unique color, translucent texture and elegant texture. Unlike common marble or granite, onyx creates a mesmerizing effect in interior decoration with its unique appearance.

The versatility and aesthetic value of onyx marble make it popular in interior decoration, bringing a unique charm to a space whether used for countertops, walls, floors or decorative items. In this popular science article, we will delve into the properties and benefits of onyx to reveal to you what makes this stone unique.

How to Maintain Onyx Surfaces?

How to Clean Onyx Surfaces?

How to Use Onyx Marble in Interior Decoration?

I. What is onyx marble?

Onyx marble is an elegant, translucent marble. Onyx is a variant of marble that is characterized by its colorful, unique texture and transparent or translucent appearance. This stone is often used for interior decoration, such as countertops, floors, walls, etc. Its unique appearance and translucent texture add unique beauty and visual effects to the space. Onyx stone is commonly available in a variety of colors, including white, grey, green, blue and a variety of mixed shades, with each piece displaying a unique combination of textures and colors.

These days, onyx marble — also referred to as travertine in the US — is a highly sought-after material among interior designers and architects. When dissolved and redeposited, the substance becomes a soft, brittle stone that resembles limestone. Like regular marble, onyx is a porous natural stone that resembles limestone. Therefore, it consists of pits that are filled and sealed to obtain a smooth surface. The product’s quality is determined by the process’s efficiency.

Marble is used as flooring in commercial and residential spaces, as slabs for countertops, mantels, backsplashes, and more.

● Origin

Onyx marble originates from dripstone deposits in limestone caves. Water drips from the icicles and spikes, creating colorful swirling textures and patterns. Onyx countertops can have an incredible impact on a home design scheme, giving it that wow factor that sets it apart from the rest.

II. The correlation between onyx marble and Feng Shui

Onyx marble has great significance in Greek and Chinese culture. The Greeks called this material nail stone because of its resemblance to fingernails, which also had amazing powers to restore health and ward off evil intentions. The Greeks believed that this had great power to help people become strong and free from indecision, indecision or doubt.

According to many cultures, onyx marble, especially black onyx, is believed to have metaphysical and spiritual powers. They are used for grounding, protection, self-control, and as a shield against negative energies. In addition, onyx marble helps balance yin and yang and treat foot and bone marrow problems. Onyx marble is used to ensure physical stamina and strength after illness.

As we all know, they are effective in three aspects of life; Kan is career, Gen is knowledge, and Dui is completion. Onyx marble can also reduce stress, relieve pain, and help create emotional balance and self-control

In Indian and Persian cultures, onyx was seen as a protector of evil. They believed that onyx marble could help cool the passions of those who were passionate. This helps prevent extramarital affairs. Many Indians also believe that onyx marble is a symbol of luck and success.

III. Advantages and disadvantages of using onyx marble

● Advantages

1. Light weight

The material is lightweight compared to granite or marble tiles. Since they are small slabs from the quarry, they are easy to handle and install. Additionally, onyx marble has a softer density and is best suited for indoor and vertical applications.

2. Translucency

This transparent or translucent appearance gives onyx marble a luxurious feel. The luxurious quality allows it to be easily backlit, inducing movement and enhancing the color of onyx marble. Depending on the light source, colors also tend to appear warm and vibrant. It emits faint light and creates a unique visual effect.

3. Color diversity

A common misconception is that the material only comes in black. There are several hues and designs available in onyx marble. They are more like gemstones and have a movement pattern similar to the way a liquid transitions from one color to another. Onyx marble is available in pink, beige, blue, green, gray and white as well as a variety of mixed shades, all made from natural stone.

4. Textures and patterns

Each piece of onyx marble has a unique texture and pattern. Its texture may be smooth, contrasting, or have a unique grain pattern, making each piece unique.

5. Decorative

Onyx marble is often used for interior decoration, such as countertops, floors, walls, etc. Its unique appearance and translucent texture bring visual appeal and unique beauty to the space

6. Rare and long-lived

Onyx marble is considered a gem among stones. Unlike other natural stones, onyx marble is formed on the ground because it is a calcium deposit stone. It is formed by the sedimentation process of spring water. The many layers are formed by varying amounts and flows of water and the presence of impurities. They have a long span and can last up to 100 years.

7. Increase value

Using onyx marble in home decoration can increase the overall value of the home. Its rarity and decorative nature make the home more attractive and form part of the property’s appreciation.

● Disadvantages

1. Vulnerability

Compared to other natural stones, onyx marble is soft, brittle, and brittle, making it susceptible to scratches and wear. This makes it necessary to be more cautious when using it in high-traffic areas, such as kitchens. Therefore, it is not recommended to use it in areas with heavy traffic. Additionally, the material requires a fiberglass mesh backing for added strength.

2. Acid sensitivity

Onyx marble is porous and sensitive to acidic substances. Acidic solutions such as lemon juice and vinegar may cause damage to its surface. There may be traces of stains, leading to corrosion and permanent damage.

3. Expensive

Due to its rarity and uniqueness, onyx marble is relatively expensive. Therefore used in projects requiring high profile decoration. Increases the value of your space compared to other stone countertop options.

4. High maintenance costs

Onyx marble requires regular sealing and care to maintain its appearance and prevent water absorption. Without proper care, water leakage and damage can occur.

5. Uniqueness Limitations

Each piece of onyx marble is unique, which can also make it more difficult to find a matching material when renovating a large area.

IV. Why choose natural onyx marble?

Several factors contribute to the growing popularity of natural onyx marble for interior decoration projects, especially in premium spaces such as hotels, shopping malls, spas and private clubs.

First of all, onyx marble is a symbol of luxury and sophistication, perfectly matching the aesthetic aspirations of such places. It has a sophisticated, unique and luxurious look and is available in a range of colors including yellow, brown, green, black, white and pink. Its fine texture and rich texture, coupled with its translucency, result in a mesmerizing visual effect. When backlit, onyx marble creates a beautiful interplay of light and shadow, further enhancing its appeal.

Onyx marble also fits in with some of the emerging interior design trends for 2023. First, there is the growing trend of using natural materials in interior design to create a warm, cozy atmosphere. Given that onyx marble is quarried from natural limestone caves, its use is in line with this trend.

Secondly, people are increasingly embracing bold colors in interior design, with black, green, and red becoming increasingly popular in countertops, backsplashes, and accent walls. Onyx in bright colors like yellow, green, pink and black tap into this trend.

Using textured surfaces, which give a room depth and character, is another popular trend. The rich texture of onyx marble fits this trend.

Additionally, the versatility of onyx marble is another factor driving its popularity. It has a variety of uses, from flooring and accent walls to kitchen backsplashes, bathroom fixtures and stairs. Onyx slabs, for instance, can be used to make a distinctive backsplash for the kitchen, to frame a bathroom mirror to add a touch of luxury, or to transform a backlit staircase into an artistic piece.

Finally, as sustainable design choices become increasingly important, the use of natural materials such as onyx marble meets the growing demand for eco-friendly options.

All things considered, onyx marble’s inherent beauty, adaptability, and compatibility with contemporary design trends make it a popular option for interior decoration projects in high-end venues.

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IV. Conclusion

As a precious and unique stone, onyx exhibits its unique color and translucent properties, making it popular for interior decoration. Its diverse colors and textures provide designers and owners with rich options, while its translucent texture creates a unique light and shadow effect in the space.

Available in a wealth of colors and patterns, onyx marble offers a world of possibilities for architects, designers, and homeowners alike. Whether you desire a luxurious onyx marble bathroom, a stunning staircase lined with onyx tiles, statement onyx columns, or stunning walls adorned with backlit onyx, this versatile stone can suit a variety of architectural and design preferences.