How Much Is Black Onyx Worth?

If you’ve ever held a piece of black onyx, you probably know that this gemstone has a special allure.

Its deep, velvety black color feels both mysterious and grounding at the same time.

But if you're wondering, "How much is black onyx worth?"

let me take you through everything I've learned, from personal experience in selling black onyx pieces online to understanding the ins and outs of what really gives this stone its value.

My Journey With Black Onyx – The Hidden Gem

When I first started working with gemstones for my Shopify store, black onyx wasn't the most glamorous stone on my radar.

Sure, people love diamonds, sapphires, and rubies.

But black onyx? It’s got this understated elegance that grows on you.

It's bold without being over the top, and honestly, the more I worked with it, the more I realized that black onyx is truly a gem in its own right.

But like you, I had questions.

Why do some pieces of black onyx cost next to nothing, while others are much pricier?

Is it just about the stone itself, or is there more to its value?

Spoiler alert: there's a lot more to it than just being a "black stone."

What Affects the Value of Black Onyx?

Black onyx is an affordable gemstone compared to high-end stones like diamonds or emeralds, but the price can still vary significantly.

The value of black onyx largely depends on the quality of the stone, the craftsmanship of the jewelry it's set in, and the design.

Let’s break down some key factors.

1. Quality of the Stone

The quality of black onyx primarily revolves around its color and texture.

The ideal piece of black onyx is uniformly black with a smooth, polished finish.

That deep black hue should look rich and even—no visible lines or inclusions.

Lower quality stones might have blemishes, a grayish tint, or a less polished surface, which will drop their value.

Personally, I’ve come across both ends of the spectrum.

Sometimes, a vendor will try to pass off a lesser-quality stone for a higher price, and it can be tricky if you don't know what to look for.

Always trust your source.

Over time, you'll develop an eye for good onyx.

2. Natural vs. Treated Onyx

Here’s the kicker—many pieces of black onyx you find on the market are treated to enhance their color.

Natural black onyx is rare and can be more expensive because of its natural beauty.

If you're looking to invest in black onyx, always ask if it's natural or treated.

Treated stones are typically dyed or heat-treated to achieve that uniform black appearance.

From my experience, treated black onyx still looks beautiful, but you might want to pay a little extra for natural black onyx if you're a collector or just prefer something a bit rarer.

3. Carat Size

Like most gemstones, black onyx is sold by the carat.

Larger stones will naturally be more expensive than smaller ones.

However, because black onyx is a relatively inexpensive gem, you can find larger stones without breaking the bank.

Just keep in mind that bigger isn’t always better—clarity and quality are far more important when it comes to overall value.

4. Cut and Craftsmanship

The way black onyx is cut can make a world of difference in its value.

A well-cut stone will reflect light beautifully, even though it's a deep black stone.

Onyx cabochons (those rounded, polished stones) are quite popular in jewelry.

Personally, I’m a sucker for a finely crafted onyx pendant or ring.

The level of craftsmanship—how the stone is set, polished, and finished—will also greatly affect its price.

My Experience With Black Onyx Pricing

Okay, so how much can you expect to pay for black onyx?

Well, based on my experience selling black onyx jewelry online, here’s a rough breakdown:

• Lower-Quality Black Onyx: $1 - $5 per carat
  These are typically treated or dyed stones, often used in costume jewelry. They’re still beautiful but won't hold much long-term value. You’ll find this kind of onyx in everyday jewelry, and while it’s affordable, it doesn’t have the richness of higher-quality stones.

• Mid-Quality Black Onyx: $5 - $15 per carat
  This price range typically includes better-polished and treated stones. They're not rare but look fantastic in jewelry, especially rings, bracelets, and earrings. This is where most of the black onyx jewelry you'll find in stores sits. It's great for fashion, but not necessarily investment pieces.

• High-Quality Natural Black Onyx: $15 - $50+ per carat
  Natural, untreated black onyx with great craftsmanship can command higher prices. These pieces are more durable and rare. They’re perfect for someone looking to add a unique gemstone to their collection.

For larger, finely crafted pieces, the prices can increase significantly.

I've seen exquisite black onyx jewelry that fetches well into the hundreds of dollars, but at that point, you’re paying for the artistry as much as the stone itself.

Is Black Onyx a Good Investment?

To be brutally honest, black onyx is not usually considered an investment stone like diamonds or rare colored gemstones.

It doesn’t appreciate significantly in value over time, and it's relatively abundant compared to other precious gems.

But here's the thing—black onyx isn’t really about investing in money.

It's about investing in style, in mystique, in elegance.

Black onyx is often used as a protective stone in various cultures, believed to absorb negative energy and provide strength.

If you ask me, that makes it pretty valuable on a personal level, even if it’s not going to skyrocket in price.

Common Questions About Black Onyx

1. Is black onyx expensive?

No, black onyx is relatively affordable compared to other gemstones.

Prices vary based on quality and craftsmanship, but even high-quality black onyx is usually within a reasonable price range.

2. Is black onyx a real gemstone?

Yes, black onyx is a real gemstone and belongs to the chalcedony mineral family.

However, many black onyx stones are treated to enhance their color.

3. Can black onyx be used for engagement rings?

Yes, although black onyx isn’t a traditional choice for engagement rings, it can make for a striking and unique option, especially in a well-crafted setting.

4. How do I care for black onyx jewelry?

Black onyx is relatively durable, but it's still softer than other gemstones like diamonds or sapphires.

Avoid using harsh chemicals and clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap.

5. Does black onyx have spiritual significance?

Yes, black onyx is often used in spiritual practices for protection and grounding.

It’s believed to absorb negative energy and provide strength and resilience.

Final Thoughts

So, how much is black onyx worth?

It depends on the quality, size, and whether it’s natural or treated.

While black onyx isn’t typically a gemstone you invest in for financial gain, it offers incredible value in terms of aesthetics, cultural significance, and spiritual meaning.

Whether you're looking to add it to your jewelry collection or simply want a bold, stylish stone, black onyx is worth every penny.

It might not be the most expensive stone out there, but I guarantee it's one that will make a statement every time you wear it.