Pikes Peak Pebble Pups and Earth Science Scholars: Onyx

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Onyx

By Elkan Normandin

Do you like onyx? I like onyx. Onyx comes in many colors such as blue, green, red, yellow, purple, and black. Onyx is used in rings, necklaces, and other jewelry. It can be cut and polished or kept just as it is found. It is a natural stone, although most natural black onyx today is dyed black.

Onyx is a variety of quartz. The full chemical compound is SiO2 (silicon dioxide).It forms in layers with sediments. It is 6.5-7 on the hardness scale. The luster is a bit waxy. Its value ranges widely. That is why onyx is nice.

A layered black and white onyx cabochon.
Photo by By Rob Lavinsky. Courtesy Wikipedia Commons.

Author bio: Elkan is in 4th grade and a member of the Lake George Gem and Mineral Club.

Welcome! This is the gateway to adventure and discovery

Through this blog pebble pups and junior members of the Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society can access their lessons, work on assignments and projects, and receive details about field trips in the Pikes Peak Region. This Internet program is also suitable for young people who are interested in Earth science but do not live near a rock club or gem and mineral society or for young people anywhere who want a deeper dive into these topics. The only requirement is that all participants must be members of the Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society and must fill out the CSMS membership form (under important websites) and send their registration and membership fee in. Steven Veatch is the senior instructor and will need an email from you with your name, address, phone number, and permission from your parents to participate in this program.