Onyx

Onyx is widely known as the birthstone for the month of December and is often associated with Leo zodiac sign. Onyx is said to be a mix of Chalcedony Quartz. The name is derived from the Greek word "onyx" which translates to "nail of finger or claw." The name is in reference to a story of the Greek Goddess Venus who had her fingernails cut by Eros or otherwise known as Cupid. Her nail clippings were left scattered along the ground and due to the belief, that not a single part of a heavenly body can die, not even something as frivolous as nail clippings, the gods turned the clippings into the stone we know today as Onyx.

This stone can be found in various colors not just the simple black we all know it to be. Onyx can also come in white, brown, a shade of reddish brown, and can even be banded. Not only can it be found in various colors, but Onyx can also come from various parts of the world. Onyx comes from Uruguay, Brazil, India, and California which is located in the United States of America.

 In metaphysical belief, Onyx is believed to aid in assisting one to face their "shadow side" in order to prevent toxic patterns and old trauma from being released or relapsed. Onyx is also said to stimulate sensibility as well as promoting clear focus.