Sardonyx
Science & Origin of Sardonyx
Sardonyx is the name given to a variety of Onyx that contains bands of Carnelian. It was first recorded back in 1837 by J.D. Dana and named after the Ancient Greek city and capital of Lydia, “Sardis”. The original word “sard” was also used to describe very dark colored Carnelian up until modern times. This mineral is not necessarily rare but is definitely not a stone you see everyday. Sardonyx is easily faked or dyed due to the high demand constantly surrounding the stone. Next to Peridot, it's also considered to be the birthstone for anyone born in the month of August. When going to purchase this stone, we recommend buying from a reliable and trusted dealer. It's very hard to tell the difference between fake and real because some people are simply unaware of what they’re selling. The most important deposit of Sardonyx is currently located in Sri Lanka, but other notable localities include India, Uruguay, and Brazil.
Sardonyx has been used by countless different civilizations during the last 4,500 years. Most of the time it was turned into jewelry and amulets that would offer up endless protection, strength, and willpower. A common ancient belief was that it would absorb negative energy and then store it. After carrying it for a while one would then clear and empty the stone before continuing to wear it again. The Ancient Roman soldiers would wear a Sardonyx ring or necklace into battle with an image of Mars, the God of War. This was thought to offer up protection and the courage needed to go into war. Sardonyx was also used as a common carving material for sculptures, plates, and trinkets. A variety of civilizations utilized this very valuable crystal, such as the Assyrians, the Indus civilization, and the Mycenaeans. Lastly, this stone was mentioned in the Bible where in Revelation 21:20, Sardonyx is described as “ A precious stone in the foundation of the heavenly city”.
Meaning & Energy
Sardonyx combines the grounding and protecting energies of Onyx, with the strength and courage energies of Carnelian. This stone helps bring out one’s inner strength, to move it towards accomplishing your dreams and goals. Sardonyx should serve as a daily reminder that anything is possible in life as long as you put all your energy and focus into it. Carnelian is a stone that will push one to stop at nothing until they get what they truly want. When naturally combined with Onyx, Sardonyx makes one truly believe and realize their desires are within reach. So often do we focus on the negative side of things, like how far away we are from joy, happiness and success that we tend to get discouraged. Sardonyx pushes one past that point and provides the mental clarity needed to continue on our life path.
Combining Stones for Manifesting Your Goals
Try meditating with this stone alongside other manifestation crystals such as Pyrite, Citrine, or Smoky Quartz. These stones alongside Sardonyx will help one achieve success and prosperity in whatever it is that you want. Carry these stones with you daily as you work towards your goals. Use them to remind you of how far you’ve come, and just how far you're truly prepared to go.
