Everything You Need to Know About Onyx Engagement Rings

An onyx engagement ring is an excellent option for the bride-to-be looking for something unique and edgy. After all, has there ever been a more versatile neutral than black?

A distinguishing characteristic of onyx is its color. Onyx stones are most typically black with white bands. Though less common, onyx can also be found in green or reddish-brown called sardonyx. Fans of the ornate, antique looks of the Victorian era or the bold geometry of the Art Deco aesthetic may also want to consider an onyx engagement ring, as the stone was popular in both time periods.

“I recently had a bride come in who doesn’t wear jewelry very often,” says New York City jeweler Ashley Zhang. “To her, a diamond didn’t feel genuine. She didn’t want anything flashy. She wanted something unique and different. After looking at everything I had, she settled on an onyx ring because it was really simple, clean and modern.”

The History of Onyx Gemstones

Per Zhang, the word onyx is derived from the ancient Greek word for claw. “The story is that while Venus slept, her fingernails were trimmed, and the gods turned these clippings into the stone known as onyx,” she says.

Throughout history, onyx has been used in protective amulets, rosaries, and cameos. During the Victorian era, it became a favorite stone in mourning jewelry. “The jewelry of this period reflected the monarch’s style,” says Zhang. “Queen Victoria expressed her sadness at the loss of her husband, Prince Albert, through her fashion choices.”

Today, onyx is associated with the Zodiac sign Leo and is also a traditional gemstone gift for 7th wedding anniversaries.

What to Look for in an Onyx Ring

“I’m not the biggest fan of color—maybe because I’m a New Yorker—and when you have an engagement ring, you should be able to wear it with everything,” she says. “Onyx really lends itself to that, so you can do a lot in terms of styling.” Not to mention, it's generally more affordable than diamonds.

As with all engagement rings, you’ll want to work with a reputable jeweler you trust. Banded calcite, a less valuable mineral, and other stones can be dyed and passed off as onyx. Beyond that, Zhang says to look for scratches and chips on the surface of the stone, particularly if you’re considering a vintage ring.

How to Care for Your Onyx Ring

“Onyx is softer than diamond, but it is still an easy stone to care for,” says Zhang. “Steam or ultrasonic cleanings are safe, but you want to avoid extreme heat or chemicals. Soap and water is always safe and easy.”

Another protective measure Zhang recommends is to opt for a bezel setting for your onyx stone. “The bezel is a frame of metal around a stone,” she explains. “This is a smart way to set the stone, as when you hit the ring during everyday wear the metal will take most of the pressure.” This decreases the chance of the stone cracking or chipping.

Ready to start shopping for your onyx engagement ring? Scroll down for stunning options.