Black onyx is a variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz that forms in bands of different colors. Onyx with bands of black and white is the most common form, but pure black onyx is highly sought after for its powerful energy.
In many cultures around the world, black onyx is believed to have a wide range of metaphysical and healing properties that can be harnessed for protection, grounding, manifestation, and more.
Read on to learn about the symbolism and meanings associated with this potent stone.
Meaning and Symbolism of Black Onyx
Throughout history, black onyx has been a revered stone invoking the greatest strength and protection. It was used in burials and carvings by ancient civilizations to ward off evil spirits and grant safe passage in the afterlife. The black color was associated with night, the underworld, and the unconscious mind.
Strength and Protection
Black onyx absorbs and transforms negative energy, providing strength in times of stress. It fortifies self-discipline, focus, and willpower. Black onyx guards against negativity and energy vampirism from people and environments. It provides an impenetrable shield against psychic attack or ill-wishing. Many people carry or wear black onyx for protection.
Grounding and Stability
The solid black bands of onyx are intimately connected to the earth element. Black onyx harnesses the steady vibrancy of the planet to ground and balance. It calms erratic emotions and restores rational thinking and focus. It dispels anxiety, fear, and distraction. The stability of black onyx makes it an excellent stone for setting goals and seeing them through.
Transformation and Self-control
By absorbing negative or excess energy, black onyx transforms it into usable spiritual ambition and determination. It both protects and purifies the soul, initiating deep inner change and providing the required focus to maintain and integrate that change long-term. With enhanced self-control, one can conquer bad habits, taper reckless behaviors, and act from wisdom rather than impulsiveness.
Physical and Metaphysical Properties of Black Onyx
In addition to its symbolic virtues, black onyx has metaphysical properties that impart healing on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.
Healing Properties
On a physical level, black onyx is believed to benefit the kidneys, bones, bone marrow, blood disorders, feet, and connective tissues. It aids absorption of nutrients and the elimination of wastes. Black onyx is also connected to the Root chakra and can help heal issues related to survival and security.
Emotional and Mental Healing
Black onyx fosters wise decision-making, alleviates anxiety and worry, soothes fears, and calms excessive emotions. It helps identify the root cause of negative feelings and encourages letting go. It strengthens determination, instills stamina, and sharpens concentration. Black onyx enhances emotional resilience.
Spiritual Connections
The black bands on the onyx symbolize spiritual strides through darkness into light. It instills self-mastery and inner strength while unveiling one’s true spiritual self. Black onyx heightens intuition and amplifies energy from other crystals. It connects to the Earth’s wisdom and brings stability and self-control to spiritual explorations.
Uses and Incorporation of Black Onyx
Due to its protective energies and grounding properties, black onyx has various traditional and modern uses:
Jewelry and Talismans
Black onyx has historically been used in necklaces, bracelets, brooches, rings, and other jewelry as both fashion and crystal healing. It makes for a perfect everyday talisman of protection. Black onyx works synergistically with silver, enhancing willpower and focus.
Home Decor and Feng Shui
To impart strength and security in the home, incorporate black onyx in living room decor, bathroom vanities, and kitchen countertops. Use black onyx sculptures in feng shui to deflect and absorb challenging energy from certain areas.
Meditation and Energy Work
Hold black onyx in your hands during meditation to direct its grounding energy through your body. Place it on your Root chakra or feet chakras to stabilize and strengthen your foundation. Use it in crystal grids to enhance the powers of other stones.
Care and Maintenance of Black Onyx
While a relatively durable stone, proper care of black onyx enhances its energies:
Cleansing and Charging
Cleanse black onyx regularly by placing it overnight in salt water or burying it in the earth. Recharge in sunlight. Also clear by smudging or leaving in the moonlight. Avoid ultrasonic or harsh chemical cleaners.
Proper Storage and Handling
Store black onyx away from other stones. Wrap separately in soft cloth or place in own pouch. Be mindful of its concentrated power when handling. Use a bolster cloth when wearing black onyx jewelry.
Programming and Intention Setting
Before first use, dedicate your black onyx through focused meditation or intention journaling. Affirm your purpose and direct the depth of its influence. Set regular intentions to renew its energies.
The rich symbolic legacy and potent metaphysical properties of black onyx offer a valuable wellspring of protective and grounding energies. When incorporated with purpose, this ancient and mystical stone lives up to its storied reputation of conjuring deep inner strength, focus, and stability.
