Onyx, a rare and valuable stone, is one of the more costly stones in the countertop industry. However, its stunning features and incomparable style both create a space that stands apart from the average home. The variety of contrasting colors, veining and rich layers are formed in the earth over thousands of years. That means each piece of onyx is its own work of art.

The rich, striking beauty of onyx has been revered by civilizations throughout the course of human history. Ancient Greeks and Egyptians used it to make jewelry and carvings. Today, onyx symbolizes opulence and luxury in modern interior design. It can be backlit, too, thanks to its translucency. Backlit onyx makes a dramatic impact as the focal point of your kitchen.

Elevate Your Interior Design Statement with Onyx

Onyx’s contrasting colors and diverse patterns can be used for so much: decorative wall panels, kitchen countertops, backsplashes, bathroom vanity tops, a butler’s pantry countertop, floor and wall tiles, and even sinks and toilets.

You can mix and match onyx with other materials to result in ultra-modern interior design. This natural stone pairs well with wood, steel, concrete and glass, with a striking effect that’s particularly nice when combined with dark wood. The contrast highlights the natural beauty of the stone, which is why onyx elements are often infused into monochromatic designs for a breath-taking backdrop.

Best For Low Traffic Areas

Onyx is best used in low traffic areas due to its softness. Thus, it’s best suited for a butler’s pantry, less frequently-used bathrooms, bathtub surrounds, or fireplace surrounds – anywhere this stone is less likely to become damaged. If you have an active, busy kitchen, you may want to consider using it as a backsplash rather than your main countertop. For instance, you could pair a white onyx backsplash with black or dark wood cabinets and stainless steel appliances.

That being said, plenty of homeowners still choose onyx for their kitchen countertops due to its distinctive appearance and luxurious style. Keep in mind that onyx is fragile, with extra care required, compared with other kinds of stones. You don’t want to do common activities, such as moving around pots and pans or cutting up vegetables directly on the surface, as your onyx counter can get scratched or chipped.

Onyx is also susceptible to etching with acidic liquids, such as wine, tomato sauce, or lemon juice. Always use a cutting board and wipe up spills immediately. You’ll also want to seal your onyx countertops frequently and clean them with special stone cleaner.

In the end, onyx may not be as popular as granite and marble, but it’s still sought after by discerning homeowners who wish to add a dynamic design element to their homes.

Contact Granite Guy

To learn more about our onyx countertop, backsplash and surround installations, contact us at 508-460-7900 or fill out our online form.