This eye-catching, semi-precious gemstone is a variety of layered chalcedony and belongs to the quartz mineral clan. It may surprise you to note that natural black onyxes are exceedingly rare. As such, many of the variations sold today are actually grey chalcedonies that have been dyed and heat-treated to achieve the desired black hue. This makes the gem more affordable and accessible as well.
So if you too are planning to bring home spectacular black onyx jewelry but are unsure about which metal to choose, then keep reading…
Here are some important points to keep in mind before you make the final decision.
1) Durability of The Gem
The black onyx has a rating of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This indicates that while the stone is more durable than some other jewels, like the pearl, it still isn’t recommended for daily wear.
Taking this into consideration, the metal you choose should be strong enough to protect the gemstone.
2) Shine
Unlike most gemstones, the black onyx is known for its radiant and fully opaque dark black surface. It is, therefore, extremely important to pick a metal that can complement its beauty and help create a fabulous piece of jewelry.
So Which Metal Best Suits the Black Onyx?
Keeping the above-mentioned factors in mind, platinum is undoubtedly the best option for this gem. It is a silver-white precious metal that derives its name from the Spanish word ‘Platino’. Platinum is extremely dense in nature, and highly unreactive which makes it the perfect option for the beautiful black onyx.
The metal also comes with a host of USPs, some of which are as follows…
1) Durability
This is undoubtedly the main USP of the metal.
Platinum is extremely dense, which gives it the ability to withstand the wear and tear of daily life. When paired with the right protective setting, such as the bezel or channel, this metal is sure to protect your stone from any blows that may come its way.
2) Looks Luxurious
The magic of this gem’s hue is multiplied by the soft sheen of the platinum. Its shine gives the black onyx a luxurious vibe that is sure to make it the center of attention at every event.
3) Precious Metal
Believe it or not, platinum is one of the rarest metals found on earth and is five times rarer than gold. This makes it an extremely valuable purchase. And when teamed up with the fascinating black onyx you are sure to have a piece that’s worthy of being passed on to future generations.
4) Hypoallergenic In Nature
Unlike several other metals, which are mixed with other elements to give them strength, platinum is typically used in its purest form. This eliminates any chance of an allergic reaction and makes the metal a great choice for people with sensitive skin. So if you’re scared about developing rashes or other skin infections, then platinum may just be the right choice for you.
Important Note
If you do not wish to opt for platinum, then yellow gold is a great alternative that you can consider. It is relatively more affordable, is hypoallergenic in nature and exudes a traditional yet rich vibe.
