Onyx
The opacities and transparencies make
it very characteristic.
Onyx is a chalcedony, a variety of microcrystalline quartz. Its formation is due to silica deposits
within lava gas cavities. As a result, unique bands and parallel stripes are formed, giving Onyx a
relief rich in tones, depths and transparencies.
Onyx is also called Tecalli or Mexican Marble. Tecalli is the place where most of the Onyx in
Mexico is found, in the State of Puebla. It occurs in different varieties, grades of transparency and
tones. It can be found in a wide variation of colors produced by oxides, these are reflected in a
range from dark to apple green, and from intense red to the lightest rose tint.
Throughout history it has been highly valued for its exotic and translucent qualities. The opacities
and transparencies make it very characteristic, accentuating different tones in every piece, it is rich
in shades and depths which constitute their indescribable elegance. Onyx has a beautiful silky appearance,
enriching every form it is transformed into.
In Mexico Onyx has been worked for more than hundreds of years, it was widely used in preconquest
Mexico for masks. This well-known material tolerates a higher polish than the common
marble. Its natural color white is beautiful and gives a touch of sophistication and elegance when
applied in any minimalistic form. A white Onyx brings a neutral and calm feeling to any space, letting
the refined stripes and transparencies be the accent variations
Unique bands and parallel stripes are formed in its texture,
giving Onyx a relief rich in tones, depths and transparencies.
