Sardonyx

Metaphysical & Spiritual Properties

Sardonyx is said to help improve self-control, discipline, and build confidence, and it is often used to enhance willpower and determination. Sardonyx has a grounding effect, stabilizing you, connecting you to the healing energy of the earth.  Feeling secure will help to calm and soothe the emotions and many claim that sardonyx will bring on a good nights rest.  It is said to help bring strength, balance and harmony to your relationships.  Use sardonyx to amplify the energies in fire or candle magic.

History & Folklore

The ancient Persians believed that sardonyx could make a soldier invincible in battle. In the Christian tradition, Sardonyx is associated with the Apostle Paul, who was said to have worn a sardonyx ring. During the medieval period in Europe, Sardonyx was believed to have powerful protective properties. It was worn to protect against the evil eye and to promote courage and strength.

Geological Information

Sardonyx is a banded variety of onyx, which itself is a type of chalcedony. Chalcedony is a microcrystalline variety of quartz, meaning it is composed of tiny quartz crystals. Sardonyx, like onyx, is known for its distinctive banding pattern, which consists of alternating layers of different colors. The most common color combination for sardonyx is white or gray bands alternating with black or brown bands, but it can also exhibit red, yellow, green and other colors in its banding.

The formation of sardonyx is similar to that of other chalcedony varieties like agate and jasper. It typically forms through the deposition of silica-rich fluids in cavities and cracks in rocks. Over time, as these fluids flow through the rock, they deposit layers of silica that eventually solidify into the banded patterns characteristic of sardonyx.

Works Well With...

Sardonyx works well with a variety of other stones, depending on the desired outcome. When used for grounding and stability, Sardonyx can be paired with stones like Black Onyx, Hematite, and Garnet. For promoting clarity and insight, Sardonyx can be combined with stones like Amethyst or Clear Quartz. Sardonyx can also be used in conjunction with other stones that promote personal power and self-expression, such as Citrine or Tiger’s Eye. When used in energy work or meditation, sardonyx can be placed on the root or solar plexus chakras to promote grounding and stability, or on the third eye chakra to enhance intuition and insight.