The architectural world uses various construction materials like wood, stone, and metal. Initially, architects used stone and wood to create intrinsic designs. However, the trends kept changing as scientists discovered different decorative materials like marble, granite, etc.
Recently, a new substance called onyx has appeared in the architectural world. The stone is preferred for its patterns, delicacy, and luxurious luster. Unlike other rocks (quartz and marble) that forge within the Earth’s internal layers, the onyx stones are cultivated on the Earth’s surface. An onyx is formed when an excessive amount of calcite dissolves into spring water.
The stone is exclusive due to its scarcity. On average, an onyx slab costs around 200 to 300 dollars. In comparison, marble costs about 40 to 100$ per square foot, and granite is significantly less expensive. Here are some valuable illustrations of different types and emplacements of the stone.
Types Of Onyx Slabs
Nature is the best creator. The production of the stone takes place in spring water, giving it fantastic colors. Onyx slabs are classifiable based on their patterns and colors.
White Onyx
You can imagine the stone like a fine quartz. Usually, white onyxes have grey and golden strokes, which give a stunning appearance. White onyx is popularly used in flooring and countertop constructions on both domestic and commercial levels.
Green Onyx
The base color is dusty green, with an artistic pattern of white and golden veins. Green onyxes are ideal for creating a sophisticated royal look. Therefore, most luxury hotels use stone in their bar counters. Also, since the onyx has low water absorption, it makes an ideal material for outdoor décor.
Yellow Onyx
If you love golden and honey-tinted stones when the yellow onyxes are worth a prime consideration. The stone is ideal for complementing and contrasting themes, as its brush-like strokes add a radiant touch to your space.
Black Onyx
Black-tinted stones are the heavenly sent, especially if they occur naturally. The black onyxes have dusty white or golden stroke-like patterns that charm their surroundings. Most homeowners prefer using the stone around fireplaces or on bar counters.
Where Do You Use Onyx?
As you may have guessed, the stone is relatively fragile, so it is best to use it in places with little or no utilization. Some of the familiar places for its installation are illustrated below:
Kitchen Counters
Kitchen counters are one of the most common places for using onyx slabs. However, since the stone is prone to scratches, it works best for sections that have light use, like a side counter where you don’t do your everyday chores, etc.
Fire Places
Fireplaces also make an excellent spot for installing onyx slabs. Unlike other stones, this material is not available in sizeable slabs, so you can use it to decorate small boundaries around your fireplaces or TV sections.
Outdoor Décor
Onyxes also make an excellent pick for outdoor décor. You can use it on the house’s front steps or outlay the door’s boundaries.
Wall Decorations
Using onyx in your wall decorations can also elevate the space. You can install a looking mirror and line it with brilliant-looking onyx slabs or create a checkered pattern. Since the stone is translucent, you can backlight it to create an ethereal glow.
The Bottom Line
There are countless materials that you can use in your home décor. Although marble and natural stone are some timeless construction substances, another alternative is also gaining popularity. The onyx stones were initially used as gemstones; however, nowadays, they are pretty famous for home and building decor.
Onyx is a naturally occurring stone, which is much more expensive due to its scarcity. Also, it comes in smaller slabs compared to other classic materials. An average onyx slab lasts for about 100 years if maintained properly.
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