Onyx – A Translucent Natural Stone Full of Elegance and Structure

Onyx – A Translucent Natural Stone Full of Elegance and Structure

Onyx – A Translucent Natural Stone Full of Elegance and Structure

Onyx is a fascinating, translucent natural stone that captivates with its unique color variations and fine veining. With its luxurious appearance, it adds elegance, depth, and a naturally artistic structure to interiors — perfect for exclusive architecture and design projects.

English

What Makes Onyx So Special?

Light Transmission & Depth
Onyx is one of the few natural stones with remarkable translucency. When crafted into thin slabs and illuminated, it creates a glowing effect that adds depth and brings the material to life.This unique characteristic makes Onyx a preferred choice in interior design for creating spectacular backlit features or accents, transforming walls, counters, and panels into luminous works of art.

Visual Structure and Vibrant Contrasts
The veining of Onyx reveals bold patterns, fluid transitions in color and brightness, transparent layers, and deep, organic textures. Every slab is a unique piece of nature, with its own individual character and visual presence.
At Uniiqo, this timeless material inspires both private clients seeking a distinctive touch for their home and interior designers or architects who work with exceptional materials to achieve extraordinary results.

Shimmering Effects and Texture
The polished surface of Onyx reflects light in an elegant way, enhancing its inner structures and natural patterns. With its unique texture and depth, the stone offers a sensory experience that is not only visible but also tangible. When combined with lighting, this effect is amplified, transforming any space into an immersive visual experience.
Whether used for backlit Onyx wall claddings in lobbies, Onyx bar counters, natural stone wall panels, or architectural elements such as staircases and design features, Onyx becomes a true centerpiece of contemporary interior design.

Exclusivity and IndividualityAs a natural material with limited availability, Onyx embodies exceptional value and rarity. Its intricate extraction and detailed craftsmanship make every slab a distinctive masterpiece, ideal for sophisticated private renovations or high-end interior design projects.

Origin and Formation of Onyx

Onyx- A Fascinating Natural Process Captured in Stone

Onyx is formed through a slow sedimentary process that takes place over thousands of years. In water-rich caves, calcium-rich solutions gradually deposit layer by layer, creating the characteristic flowing color bands and veins that make Onyx so distinctive. The variations in water composition and movement shape its unique patterns and translucency. This process requires stable climatic conditions, typically found in tropical or subtropical regions where the water contains a high level of calcium carbonate.

Origin of Onyx

The Onyx featured in our collection is sourced from carefully selected quarries around the world, from the mountains of Pakistan and Afghanistan to the exclusive deposits of Italy. Each stone carries the geological traces of its origin, revealing millions of years of natural history through its unique veining and color composition. At Uniiqo Naturstein, we handpick only the most beautiful and rare Onyx varieties — perfect for interior designers, architects, and private clients who seek to enhance their projects with a distinctive and luxurious natural material.

Typical Formation Environments and Conditions

Onyx primarily forms within cave systems where calcium-rich water slowly evaporates, leaving behind mineral deposits that accumulate over centuries. These natural layers create the stone’s impressive, translucent structure and its signature flowing patterns. Renowned deposits can be found in regions such as Mexico, Pakistan and North Africa.

Roher Onyxblock im Steinbruch mit Kran

Onyx Compared to Marble and Granite

Onyx, marble, and granite differ not only in appearance but also in their formation and composition. Both Onyx and marble (link to marble page) are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, yet they originate through very different geological processes. Onyx is a sedimentary stone, created layer by layer through calcium deposits in spring caves, while marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone is exposed to heat and pressure over time. Granite (link to granite page) on the other hand, is magmatic in origin, composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica, which gives it exceptional hardness and durability.

Unlike granite and marble, Onyx remains a pure calcium deposit. This gives it its extraordinary translucency, vibrant color variations, and elegant depth, but also makes it more sensitive to scratches and acids. While granite is ideal for heavily used surfaces such as kitchen countertops, and marble combines timeless elegance with strength, Onyx is mainly appreciated for decorative interior design applications; including wall claddings, bar counters, and backlit design features where its light-transmitting beauty can be fully experienced.


Where Onyx Is Durable — and Where It Is Not

Onyx is an excellent choice for interior applications such as wall claddings, washbasins, backlit features, furniture surfaces, or decorative elements in bathrooms, living rooms, and lounge areas. Its translucency and natural beauty make it perfect for spaces where aesthetics and atmosphere take center stage.

However, Onyx is less suitable for high-traffic floors, kitchen countertops, or outdoor areas, as it is relatively soft and sensitive to scratches, acids, and heavy wear.

With the right care and thoughtful placement, Onyx remains a timeless and captivating centerpiece, adding depth, light, and luxury to any interior design project.

Polierte beige Onyxplatte mit dezenten Adern

Mineralogical Properties and Composition of Onyx

Why Is Onyx Translucent?
Onyx is primarily composed of calcite with smaller amounts of aragonite, both crystalline forms of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). These minerals crystallize in fine, layered structures that give Onyx its distinctive banding and vibrant play of color.

The fine-crystalline structure and low density of calcite allow light to pass through the stone, creating its well-known translucent quality. This natural property makes backlit Onyx slabs so spectacular, as they appear to glow from within, revealing the stone’s depth, movement, and elegance.

Optical differences compared to marble and granite


Visually, Onyx is characterized by its translucent, banded structure that allows light to pass through, creating a captivating sense of depth and movement. Marble, in contrast, appears more subtle and uniform, with a fine to medium crystalline structure and soft color transitions. Granite, on the other hand, has a coarse-grained crystalline texture and is almost completely opaque, giving it a solid and durable appearance.

Due to its high calcite content and fine layered composition, Onyx offers a unique luminosity and elegance that make it an ideal material for interior design projects seeking a striking and luxurious effect.

Onyxblock mit warmen, natürlichen Farbschichten im Steinbruch.

The colors of Onyx

Onyx creates a warm and atmospheric ambiance that evokes emotion and fills interiors with a soft, natural glow. Thanks to its translucent structure and dynamic veining, Onyx offers not only a visual experience but also the long-lasting and low-maintenance benefits of a premium natural stone.

Each Onyx slab is a natural unicat, comparable to a work of art. Its veins, color transitions, and light reflections tell an individual story shaped by nature over millions of years. No two pieces are alike — and that is what makes Onyx so special: aesthetically unique, emotionally captivating, and functionally refined.

White and light tones

White and light Onyx varieties appear delicate, pure, and full of light. They create a calm and clear atmosphere, making them ideal for minimalist interiors or spa-inspired spaces. When used as backlit elements, they bring a sense of lightness and timeless elegance to any room.

  • Classic White (link to the page)


  • Spider White (link to the page)


  • Classic White Extra (link to the page)


  • Vanilla White (link to the page)


  • Illusion White (link to the page)

Onyx in yellow, honey, and golden tones

Onyx in shades of yellow, honey, and gold radiates warmth, luxury, and comfort. It is perfectly suited for elegant bathrooms, stylish bar counters, or refined tabletops. Especially when combined with lighting, these tones create glowing, inviting highlights that bring a sense of sophistication and harmony to any interior.

  • Wavy Honey  (link to the page)


  • Striated Honey (link to the page)


  • Honey Comb (link to the page)


  • Amber (link to the page)


  • Wonder Orange (link to the page)


  • Wonder Orange TOM (link to the page)

Green Onyx

Green Onyx is one of the rarest and most exclusive varieties of this natural stone. Its calming color makes it an ideal choice for wellness spaces, spas, or medical practices, as green is often associated with healing and balance. When backlit, it reveals an impressive depth and luminous intensity. As a statement dining table or design feature, green Onyx adds extraordinary accents of natural elegance and timeless luxury.

  • Persia Green (link to the page)


  • Emerald V.C (link to the page)

Blue Onyx

Blue Onyx captivates with its naturally mesmerizing color tones and serene appearance. It is perfectly suited for wall claddings, counters, or tabletops, bringing a calm and exclusive atmosphere to bathrooms, spas, and elegant interiors. Its depth and subtle luminosity make it a distinctive choice for luxurious interior design projects.

  • Fantasy Blue

Polierte Fantasy Blue Onyx slab mit sanfter blauer Struktur

Pink Onyx

Pink Onyx is a subtle yet captivating natural stone that exudes softness and refined elegance. It is ideal for washbasins, wall claddings, bathroom sinks, or as a sophisticated tabletop. Its gentle tones bring a romantic and luxurious touch to any interior, creating an atmosphere of warmth and timeless beauty.

  • Classic Pink


  • Rose White

Brown Onyx and Tra-Onyx

Brown Onyx is a timeless classic, admired for its warm appearance and natural veining. It is perfectly suited for wall claddings, bar counters, or furniture pieces, radiating elegance and strength both with and without backlighting.

Tra-Onyx is a unique variation with a marble-like appearance but without translucency. Although it does not glow from within, its distinctive structure and rich coloration make it an excellent choice for tabletops, wall panels, or bathroom applications where a robust yet refined natural stone is desired.

  • Dark Cider


  • Cappuccino C.C


  • Jurassic


  • Starlica

Onyx as a design element in home and garden

Onyx is an exceptional choice for interior design, bringing a sense of luxury and exclusivity through its remarkable translucency, natural veining, and unique color variations. It enhances any space with elegance and depth, making it a preferred material for feature walls, furniture surfaces, and backlit elements that create a striking atmosphere.
For outdoor use, however, Onyx is only suitable to a limited extent, as it is sensitive to moisture, UV radiation, and frost. Without proper protection, the material may fade, crack, or alter its structure over time. Therefore, we recommend using Onyx primarily in protected indoor areas where its beauty and brilliance can be preserved.

Onyx in interior design

  • Wall claddings

Whether in bathrooms, spas, or living areas, Onyx walls create a remarkable spatial effect when illuminated from behind. They are ideal as accent surfaces or full wall features, adding depth and atmosphere through the interplay of light and natural structure. The result is a luxurious and timeless interior that feels both warm and captivating.

Hellbeige Onyxplatte mit goldenen Adern

Counters and bars

In hotels, restaurants, and private homes, Onyx counters create stylish focal points that leave a lasting impression. Backlit reception counters are especially popular, as the gentle glow of Onyx captivates visitors and fills the space with a warm, exclusive atmosphere. The stone’s natural translucency and elegant veining make every counter a statement piece of refined interior design.

Hellbrauner Onyx-Tresen mit goldenen Adern in modernem Showroom
  • Kitchen backsplashes and islands

Onyx can also be used in kitchens as an elegant backsplash or kitchen island surface. However, due to its softer stone composition, it is not ideal as a traditional countertop material, as it is more sensitive to scratches and acids. When used in kitchens, a professional protective seal and careful handling — such as using cutting boards and avoiding direct contact with hot pots — are essential to preserve its beauty. More information on this topic will soon be available on our dedicated kitchen countertops page.

  • Furniture, lighting, and accessories

Onyx is an exceptional material for creating unique furniture pieces, elegant lighting, and decorative accessories. Its natural patterns and rich color variations make every piece one of a kind. The Uniiqo Studio collection (link to www.uniiqostudio.com) showcases inspiring examples of how Onyx can be used stylishly in interior design — from sculptural tables and statement lamps to refined decorative objects that highlight the beauty of natural stone.

  • Washbasins and sinks

Onyx is an ideal choice for elegant washbasins and sinks in bathrooms or guest areas. Its translucent structure creates a stunning effect, especially when combined with lighting , water flows over a glowing natural stone masterpiece. Due to its calcite composition, the surface should be properly sealed to prevent stains or acid damage. With the right care and maintenance, Onyx remains durable and beautifully radiant for years to come.

Onyx-Waschbecken im modernen Bad
  • Fireplace claddings

Onyx is an excellent choice for interior fireplace claddings, especially as a decorative front with subtle light accents. The natural warmth of its color harmonizes beautifully with the glow of the fire, creating a cozy yet luxurious atmosphere. It is important, however, that Onyx does not come into direct contact with high temperatures. Installation should always be carried out by professionals to ensure proper handling of heat conductivity and material expansion.

Onyx-Verkleidung im Wohnzimmer

Onyx as a sculptural material

With its unique color gradients, translucency, and smooth texture, Onyx is a highly valued material in art and sculpture. Artists and designers use it to create sculptures, art pieces, and delicate design objects, as the stone can be shaped precisely while showcasing its natural beauty, especially when enhanced by light.

The fine veining and organic color variations make every sculpture a one-of-a-kind creation with a strong visual presence. When illuminated, Onyx reveals a nearly magical effect that leaves a lasting impression in galleries, living spaces, or public interiors.

At Uniiqo Studio (link to www.uniiqostudio.com) , you can discover a curated selection of exclusive Onyx sculptures and finely crafted design objects, each handmade and unique in form, texture, and expression.

Onyx-Vase und Skulptur auf Treppe

Proper care and cleaning of Onyx

Onyx is an exclusive yet delicate natural stone that, with the right care, retains its beauty and radiance for many years. Its unique appearance requires mindful handling in everyday use to preserve its natural shine, texture, and color depth.

Everyday cleaning and suitable cleaning products

For daily cleaning, a soft cloth and warm water are sufficient. Occasionally, a pH-neutral cleaning agent can be used to remove light residues. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface and cause it to lose its natural shine. Microfiber cloths should be used with caution, as they may leave fine scratches on the polished surface.

What to do in case of scratches or stains

Onyx is more sensitive to scratches than granite or marble. Minor surface scratches can often be removed through professional polishing. For stubborn stains, such as those caused by oils or acids, a professional deep cleaning or restoration is usually required.

To prevent such damage, Onyx should be regularly sealed or impregnated. Depending on use and room conditions, this treatment is recommended once or twice a year. With specialized natural stone care and sealing products available from professional retailers, this maintenance can usually be done at home — provided the surface is clean and dry.

What to consider when buying Onyx

When purchasing Onyx, pay attention to the quality of craftsmanship, the thickness of the slab, and the consistency of its structure. For translucent applications, light transmission is also crucial — not every Onyx slab glows with the same intensity. Ideally, ask to see samples or select the exact slab in person to ensure it meets your aesthetic expectations. Be sure to request detailed care instructions and information about recommended sealing or impregnation directly from the supplier or fabricator.

At Uniiqo Naturstein, we are direct importers of our stones. Our team personally visits quarries around the world to hand-select the finest Onyx slabs for each project. This ensures that every piece we deliver meets the highest standards of quality, color, and natural beauty — chosen directly at the source for architects, designers, and private clients who value authenticity and craftsmanship.

Beleuchtete Onyxplatten in einer modernen Werkhalle

Bookmatched Onyx – artistic symmetry created by nature

A true highlight of our Onyx collection is the so-called bookmatch effect, found in a selection of our most exclusive slabs. In this technique, two mirrored Onyx slabs are placed side by side so that their natural veins and patterns unfold like the pages of an open book, creating a fascinating and perfectly symmetrical image.
This effect is rare and only achievable with exceptionally high-quality stone blocks. Bookmatched Onyx is ideal for exclusive interior projects, from striking tabletops with a one-of-a-kind character to artistic wall claddings that make a powerful visual statement.

Ausstellung verschiedener Onyxplatten in leuchtenden Farben und Maserungen

Frequently asked questions about Onyx

Is Onyx the same as marble?

How high-maintenance is Onyx?

Can I use Onyx in the kitchen or bathroom?

Is Onyx scratch-resistant?

Conclusion: Who is Onyx suitable for?

Marble is more than just a natural stone—it is a symbol of style, permanence, and individuality. Its unique veining, timeless elegance, and versatile applications make it a material that enhances spaces and creates lasting value. Whether featured in classic interiors, modern design concepts, or as a bold statement piece, marble blends aesthetics and functionality at the highest level and remains a hallmark of exclusivity and quality.


Explore our collection now and discover rare marble varieties that will give your project a truly distinctive character.

What Makes Onyx So Special?

Light Transmission & Depth
Onyx is one of the few natural stones with remarkable translucency. When crafted into thin slabs and illuminated, it creates a glowing effect that adds depth and brings the material to life.This unique characteristic makes Onyx a preferred choice in interior design for creating spectacular backlit features or accents, transforming walls, counters, and panels into luminous works of art.

Visual Structure and Vibrant Contrasts
The veining of Onyx reveals bold patterns, fluid transitions in color and brightness, transparent layers, and deep, organic textures. Every slab is a unique piece of nature, with its own individual character and visual presence.
At Uniiqo, this timeless material inspires both private clients seeking a distinctive touch for their home and interior designers or architects who work with exceptional materials to achieve extraordinary results.

Shimmering Effects and Texture
The polished surface of Onyx reflects light in an elegant way, enhancing its inner structures and natural patterns. With its unique texture and depth, the stone offers a sensory experience that is not only visible but also tangible. When combined with lighting, this effect is amplified, transforming any space into an immersive visual experience.
Whether used for backlit Onyx wall claddings in lobbies, Onyx bar counters, natural stone wall panels, or architectural elements such as staircases and design features, Onyx becomes a true centerpiece of contemporary interior design.

Exclusivity and IndividualityAs a natural material with limited availability, Onyx embodies exceptional value and rarity. Its intricate extraction and detailed craftsmanship make every slab a distinctive masterpiece, ideal for sophisticated private renovations or high-end interior design projects.

Origin and Formation of Onyx

Onyx- A Fascinating Natural Process Captured in Stone

Onyx is formed through a slow sedimentary process that takes place over thousands of years. In water-rich caves, calcium-rich solutions gradually deposit layer by layer, creating the characteristic flowing color bands and veins that make Onyx so distinctive. The variations in water composition and movement shape its unique patterns and translucency. This process requires stable climatic conditions, typically found in tropical or subtropical regions where the water contains a high level of calcium carbonate.

Origin of Onyx

The Onyx featured in our collection is sourced from carefully selected quarries around the world, from the mountains of Pakistan and Afghanistan to the exclusive deposits of Italy. Each stone carries the geological traces of its origin, revealing millions of years of natural history through its unique veining and color composition. At Uniiqo Naturstein, we handpick only the most beautiful and rare Onyx varieties — perfect for interior designers, architects, and private clients who seek to enhance their projects with a distinctive and luxurious natural material.

Typical Formation Environments and Conditions

Onyx primarily forms within cave systems where calcium-rich water slowly evaporates, leaving behind mineral deposits that accumulate over centuries. These natural layers create the stone’s impressive, translucent structure and its signature flowing patterns. Renowned deposits can be found in regions such as Mexico, Pakistan and North Africa.

Roher Onyxblock im Steinbruch mit Kran

Onyx Compared to Marble and Granite

Onyx, marble, and granite differ not only in appearance but also in their formation and composition. Both Onyx and marble (link to marble page) are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, yet they originate through very different geological processes. Onyx is a sedimentary stone, created layer by layer through calcium deposits in spring caves, while marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone is exposed to heat and pressure over time. Granite (link to granite page) on the other hand, is magmatic in origin, composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica, which gives it exceptional hardness and durability.

Unlike granite and marble, Onyx remains a pure calcium deposit. This gives it its extraordinary translucency, vibrant color variations, and elegant depth, but also makes it more sensitive to scratches and acids. While granite is ideal for heavily used surfaces such as kitchen countertops, and marble combines timeless elegance with strength, Onyx is mainly appreciated for decorative interior design applications; including wall claddings, bar counters, and backlit design features where its light-transmitting beauty can be fully experienced.


Where Onyx Is Durable — and Where It Is Not

Onyx is an excellent choice for interior applications such as wall claddings, washbasins, backlit features, furniture surfaces, or decorative elements in bathrooms, living rooms, and lounge areas. Its translucency and natural beauty make it perfect for spaces where aesthetics and atmosphere take center stage.

However, Onyx is less suitable for high-traffic floors, kitchen countertops, or outdoor areas, as it is relatively soft and sensitive to scratches, acids, and heavy wear.

With the right care and thoughtful placement, Onyx remains a timeless and captivating centerpiece, adding depth, light, and luxury to any interior design project.

Polierte beige Onyxplatte mit dezenten Adern

Mineralogical Properties and Composition of Onyx

Why Is Onyx Translucent?
Onyx is primarily composed of calcite with smaller amounts of aragonite, both crystalline forms of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). These minerals crystallize in fine, layered structures that give Onyx its distinctive banding and vibrant play of color.

The fine-crystalline structure and low density of calcite allow light to pass through the stone, creating its well-known translucent quality. This natural property makes backlit Onyx slabs so spectacular, as they appear to glow from within, revealing the stone’s depth, movement, and elegance.

Optical differences compared to marble and granite


Visually, Onyx is characterized by its translucent, banded structure that allows light to pass through, creating a captivating sense of depth and movement. Marble, in contrast, appears more subtle and uniform, with a fine to medium crystalline structure and soft color transitions. Granite, on the other hand, has a coarse-grained crystalline texture and is almost completely opaque, giving it a solid and durable appearance.

Due to its high calcite content and fine layered composition, Onyx offers a unique luminosity and elegance that make it an ideal material for interior design projects seeking a striking and luxurious effect.

Onyxblock mit warmen, natürlichen Farbschichten im Steinbruch.

The colors of Onyx

Onyx creates a warm and atmospheric ambiance that evokes emotion and fills interiors with a soft, natural glow. Thanks to its translucent structure and dynamic veining, Onyx offers not only a visual experience but also the long-lasting and low-maintenance benefits of a premium natural stone.

Each Onyx slab is a natural unicat, comparable to a work of art. Its veins, color transitions, and light reflections tell an individual story shaped by nature over millions of years. No two pieces are alike — and that is what makes Onyx so special: aesthetically unique, emotionally captivating, and functionally refined.

White and light tones

White and light Onyx varieties appear delicate, pure, and full of light. They create a calm and clear atmosphere, making them ideal for minimalist interiors or spa-inspired spaces. When used as backlit elements, they bring a sense of lightness and timeless elegance to any room.

  • Classic White (link to the page)


  • Spider White (link to the page)


  • Classic White Extra (link to the page)


  • Vanilla White (link to the page)


  • Illusion White (link to the page)

Onyx in yellow, honey, and golden tones

Onyx in shades of yellow, honey, and gold radiates warmth, luxury, and comfort. It is perfectly suited for elegant bathrooms, stylish bar counters, or refined tabletops. Especially when combined with lighting, these tones create glowing, inviting highlights that bring a sense of sophistication and harmony to any interior.

  • Wavy Honey  (link to the page)


  • Striated Honey (link to the page)


  • Honey Comb (link to the page)


  • Amber (link to the page)


  • Wonder Orange (link to the page)


  • Wonder Orange TOM (link to the page)

Green Onyx

Green Onyx is one of the rarest and most exclusive varieties of this natural stone. Its calming color makes it an ideal choice for wellness spaces, spas, or medical practices, as green is often associated with healing and balance. When backlit, it reveals an impressive depth and luminous intensity. As a statement dining table or design feature, green Onyx adds extraordinary accents of natural elegance and timeless luxury.

  • Persia Green (link to the page)


  • Emerald V.C (link to the page)

Blue Onyx

Blue Onyx captivates with its naturally mesmerizing color tones and serene appearance. It is perfectly suited for wall claddings, counters, or tabletops, bringing a calm and exclusive atmosphere to bathrooms, spas, and elegant interiors. Its depth and subtle luminosity make it a distinctive choice for luxurious interior design projects.

  • Fantasy Blue

Polierte Fantasy Blue Onyx slab mit sanfter blauer Struktur

Pink Onyx

Pink Onyx is a subtle yet captivating natural stone that exudes softness and refined elegance. It is ideal for washbasins, wall claddings, bathroom sinks, or as a sophisticated tabletop. Its gentle tones bring a romantic and luxurious touch to any interior, creating an atmosphere of warmth and timeless beauty.

  • Classic Pink


  • Rose White

Brown Onyx and Tra-Onyx

Brown Onyx is a timeless classic, admired for its warm appearance and natural veining. It is perfectly suited for wall claddings, bar counters, or furniture pieces, radiating elegance and strength both with and without backlighting.

Tra-Onyx is a unique variation with a marble-like appearance but without translucency. Although it does not glow from within, its distinctive structure and rich coloration make it an excellent choice for tabletops, wall panels, or bathroom applications where a robust yet refined natural stone is desired.

  • Dark Cider


  • Cappuccino C.C


  • Jurassic


  • Starlica

Onyx as a design element in home and garden

Onyx is an exceptional choice for interior design, bringing a sense of luxury and exclusivity through its remarkable translucency, natural veining, and unique color variations. It enhances any space with elegance and depth, making it a preferred material for feature walls, furniture surfaces, and backlit elements that create a striking atmosphere.
For outdoor use, however, Onyx is only suitable to a limited extent, as it is sensitive to moisture, UV radiation, and frost. Without proper protection, the material may fade, crack, or alter its structure over time. Therefore, we recommend using Onyx primarily in protected indoor areas where its beauty and brilliance can be preserved.

Onyx in interior design

  • Wall claddings

Whether in bathrooms, spas, or living areas, Onyx walls create a remarkable spatial effect when illuminated from behind. They are ideal as accent surfaces or full wall features, adding depth and atmosphere through the interplay of light and natural structure. The result is a luxurious and timeless interior that feels both warm and captivating.

Hellbeige Onyxplatte mit goldenen Adern

Counters and bars

In hotels, restaurants, and private homes, Onyx counters create stylish focal points that leave a lasting impression. Backlit reception counters are especially popular, as the gentle glow of Onyx captivates visitors and fills the space with a warm, exclusive atmosphere. The stone’s natural translucency and elegant veining make every counter a statement piece of refined interior design.

Hellbrauner Onyx-Tresen mit goldenen Adern in modernem Showroom
  • Kitchen backsplashes and islands

Onyx can also be used in kitchens as an elegant backsplash or kitchen island surface. However, due to its softer stone composition, it is not ideal as a traditional countertop material, as it is more sensitive to scratches and acids. When used in kitchens, a professional protective seal and careful handling — such as using cutting boards and avoiding direct contact with hot pots — are essential to preserve its beauty. More information on this topic will soon be available on our dedicated kitchen countertops page.

  • Furniture, lighting, and accessories

Onyx is an exceptional material for creating unique furniture pieces, elegant lighting, and decorative accessories. Its natural patterns and rich color variations make every piece one of a kind. The Uniiqo Studio collection (link to www.uniiqostudio.com) showcases inspiring examples of how Onyx can be used stylishly in interior design — from sculptural tables and statement lamps to refined decorative objects that highlight the beauty of natural stone.

  • Washbasins and sinks

Onyx is an ideal choice for elegant washbasins and sinks in bathrooms or guest areas. Its translucent structure creates a stunning effect, especially when combined with lighting , water flows over a glowing natural stone masterpiece. Due to its calcite composition, the surface should be properly sealed to prevent stains or acid damage. With the right care and maintenance, Onyx remains durable and beautifully radiant for years to come.

Onyx-Waschbecken im modernen Bad
  • Fireplace claddings

Onyx is an excellent choice for interior fireplace claddings, especially as a decorative front with subtle light accents. The natural warmth of its color harmonizes beautifully with the glow of the fire, creating a cozy yet luxurious atmosphere. It is important, however, that Onyx does not come into direct contact with high temperatures. Installation should always be carried out by professionals to ensure proper handling of heat conductivity and material expansion.

Onyx-Verkleidung im Wohnzimmer

Onyx as a sculptural material

With its unique color gradients, translucency, and smooth texture, Onyx is a highly valued material in art and sculpture. Artists and designers use it to create sculptures, art pieces, and delicate design objects, as the stone can be shaped precisely while showcasing its natural beauty, especially when enhanced by light.

The fine veining and organic color variations make every sculpture a one-of-a-kind creation with a strong visual presence. When illuminated, Onyx reveals a nearly magical effect that leaves a lasting impression in galleries, living spaces, or public interiors.

At Uniiqo Studio (link to www.uniiqostudio.com) , you can discover a curated selection of exclusive Onyx sculptures and finely crafted design objects, each handmade and unique in form, texture, and expression.

Onyx-Vase und Skulptur auf Treppe

Proper care and cleaning of Onyx

Onyx is an exclusive yet delicate natural stone that, with the right care, retains its beauty and radiance for many years. Its unique appearance requires mindful handling in everyday use to preserve its natural shine, texture, and color depth.

Everyday cleaning and suitable cleaning products

For daily cleaning, a soft cloth and warm water are sufficient. Occasionally, a pH-neutral cleaning agent can be used to remove light residues. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface and cause it to lose its natural shine. Microfiber cloths should be used with caution, as they may leave fine scratches on the polished surface.

What to do in case of scratches or stains

Onyx is more sensitive to scratches than granite or marble. Minor surface scratches can often be removed through professional polishing. For stubborn stains, such as those caused by oils or acids, a professional deep cleaning or restoration is usually required.

To prevent such damage, Onyx should be regularly sealed or impregnated. Depending on use and room conditions, this treatment is recommended once or twice a year. With specialized natural stone care and sealing products available from professional retailers, this maintenance can usually be done at home — provided the surface is clean and dry.

What to consider when buying Onyx

When purchasing Onyx, pay attention to the quality of craftsmanship, the thickness of the slab, and the consistency of its structure. For translucent applications, light transmission is also crucial — not every Onyx slab glows with the same intensity. Ideally, ask to see samples or select the exact slab in person to ensure it meets your aesthetic expectations. Be sure to request detailed care instructions and information about recommended sealing or impregnation directly from the supplier or fabricator.

At Uniiqo Naturstein, we are direct importers of our stones. Our team personally visits quarries around the world to hand-select the finest Onyx slabs for each project. This ensures that every piece we deliver meets the highest standards of quality, color, and natural beauty — chosen directly at the source for architects, designers, and private clients who value authenticity and craftsmanship.

Beleuchtete Onyxplatten in einer modernen Werkhalle

Bookmatched Onyx – artistic symmetry created by nature

A true highlight of our Onyx collection is the so-called bookmatch effect, found in a selection of our most exclusive slabs. In this technique, two mirrored Onyx slabs are placed side by side so that their natural veins and patterns unfold like the pages of an open book, creating a fascinating and perfectly symmetrical image.
This effect is rare and only achievable with exceptionally high-quality stone blocks. Bookmatched Onyx is ideal for exclusive interior projects, from striking tabletops with a one-of-a-kind character to artistic wall claddings that make a powerful visual statement.

Ausstellung verschiedener Onyxplatten in leuchtenden Farben und Maserungen

Frequently asked questions about Onyx

Is Onyx the same as marble?

How high-maintenance is Onyx?

Can I use Onyx in the kitchen or bathroom?

Is Onyx scratch-resistant?

Conclusion: Who is Onyx suitable for?

Marble is more than just a natural stone—it is a symbol of style, permanence, and individuality. Its unique veining, timeless elegance, and versatile applications make it a material that enhances spaces and creates lasting value. Whether featured in classic interiors, modern design concepts, or as a bold statement piece, marble blends aesthetics and functionality at the highest level and remains a hallmark of exclusivity and quality.


Explore our collection now and discover rare marble varieties that will give your project a truly distinctive character.