Large teardrop-shaped black onyx cabochons. Uniform opaque black, mirror polished, flat back. The clean teardrop profile makes them a central stone for statement rings, impactful pendants, and asymmetrical earrings in sterling silver 925 or wire wrap.
Item details
| Mineral |
Black onyx (chalcedony, microcrystalline quartz) |
| Dimensions |
Large teardrop — variable dimensions per piece (±0.5 mm, freeform) |
| Shape and back |
Teardrop, polished flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6.5–7 Mohs — suitable for rings, pendants, and earrings |
| Origin |
India (wholesale lapidary market) |
| Treatment |
Standard black dye (common process for commercial black onyx) |
| Type of item |
Unique piece selected by the lapidary artist |
This particular piece
Large teardrop black onyx has a clear advantage over smaller formats: the ample surface displays a deeper black and the mirror polish reflects the surroundings with greater intensity. The teardrop silhouette is geometrically clean — a narrow top point widening towards the bottom — making it versatile for both modern geometric settings and more organic designs.
The black is uniform throughout the piece, with no veins or variations in tone. The color consistency facilitates the design of settings that use contrast with metal.
What settings it works for
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Statement rings in sterling silver 925 — The 6.5–7 Mohs hardness allows for use in rings with adequate side protection (bezel setting or prongs).
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Impactful drop pendants — The large format and intense black create presence without the need for complementary stones.
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Wire wrap — The flat back and teardrop symmetry facilitate structured wrapping; the black contrasts well with silver and copper.
Onyx in lapidary tradition
Black onyx has been a power stone since Ancient Egypt, used in amulets and seals. In Victorian jewelry, it was the mourning mineral par excellence, set in gold. Its absolute black and ease of mirror polishing have made it one of the most widely used cabochon materials in artisanal jewelry for centuries. In crystal traditions, it is associated with protection and grounding.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize authentic black onyx
Commercial black onyx is almost universally dyed: raw chalcedony is grayish-translucent and is impregnated with black dye to homogenize the color. This is standard industry practice and does not reduce the quality of the cabochon. Under magnification, the microcrystalline structure characteristic of chalcedony can be seen; black glass lacks this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the black natural or dyed?
Standard black dye, which is the usual process for commercial black onyx. The mineral base (chalcedony) is authentic; the color is homogenized during the lapidary process.
What setting do you recommend for large formats?
Bezel setting in sterling silver 925 for rings (protects the perimeter from impacts). For pendants, bezel or prongs that frame the teardrop and show off the profile.
Are there several pieces of the same size?
Each piece is freeform with unique dimensions. The photographs show the range of the available batch.
Are the dimensions exact?
They have a tolerance of ±0.5 mm due to being freeform pieces hand-carved.
How to care for onyx?
Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid chemicals that may affect the dye. See jewelry care.
See more black cabochons: cabochon collection. Explore onyx jewelry: all jewelry.
