The word Sardonyx is derived from the Greek, Sard meaning reddish brown, and onyx meaning veined gem. There is an ancient Greek myth behind the origin of the word Onyx or onux, the Greek word for fingernail. The legend says that Eros (Cupid) clipped the goddess Venus' fingernails while she was sleeping and scattered them on the beaches of the Earth. Seeing what had transpired, the fates turned the fingernails to stone. These stones became the chalcedony stones that the Greeks called Onyx. Centuries later, the Romans applied the term to black and dark brown chalcedony. Black Onyx was used in the memorial jewelry of Queen Victoria's mourning period. The jewellery of this period was somber and reflected the monarch's sadness. The dark Onyx was in high demand and worked well in cameos to create stark pieces. In the Art Deco period, it was popular as a foil for rubies and clear quartz. The name onyx was used by the Romans for a variety of stones including alabaster, chalcedony, and what is now known as onyx marble. Roman soldiers wore sardonyx talismans engraved with heroes such as Hercules or Mars, god of war. They believed that the stone would make the wearer as brave and daring as the figured carved on it. During the Renaissance, sardonyx was believed to bring eloquence upon the wearer and was regarded with great value by public speakers and orators. Onyx is used as a heart, kidney, nerve, capillary, hair, eye and nail strengthener. Onyx is said to help one sleep. This gemstone helps to eliminate apathy, stress and neurological disorders. This gemstone eliminates negative thinking, it is also believed to sharpen the wits of the wearer. Onyx is said to bring spiritual inspiration. It is a great assistance in holding emotions and passions under control. Black Onyx is used to help one change habits. Sardonyx is the birthstone of Leo (Lion): July 23 - Aug 22. The chief localities of onyx are India and South America.

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