Collection: Sardonyx

Sardonyx is a semiprecious stone that belongs to the chalcedony family, a type of quartz. It is known for its alternating bands of sard (reddish-brown) and onyx (white to black) , hence its name: sard (reddish-brown) + onyx (black or white).

🪨 Physical characteristics

• Composition : Silicon dioxide (SiO₂)

• Colors : Red, brown, white, sometimes black or orange bands

• Hardness (Mohs scale) : 6.5 to 7

• Transparency : Semi-transparent to opaque

• Luster : Vitreous to silky

🌍 Geological origin and deposits

Sardonyx forms in cavities of volcanic rocks or in hydrothermal veins.
It is found in particular in:

• India

• Brazil

• Uruguay

• United States (especially California)

• Germany

• Madagascar

💎 Uses

• Jewelry : Sardonyx is often cut into cabochons, cameos, or intaglios (hollow engravings).

• Ornament : Used for decorative objects, seals, medallions.

• Lithotherapy : Highly prized for its supposed energetic properties.

✨ Symbolism and virtues (in lithotherapy)

• Emotional stability : it would strengthen self-confidence and willpower.

• Protection : Considered a stone of protection against negative influences.

• Communication : Would help with clear expression, courage and self-control.

• Anchoring : it would promote rooting and concentration.

📜 History and tradition

• In ancient times, sardonyx was a highly prized stone among the Romans , often used in cameos and seals.

• It was also worn as an amulet of protection against evil and disease.

• The name comes from the ancient Greek sardonyx , a combination of sardis (Sardinia, an ancient source of red stones) and onyx .