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A FAMILY OF CARVED ONYX
GEMSTONE TURTLES

This cute turtle family is a set of 7 carved onyx turtles in graduated sizes. Below are the approximate measurements of the pieces.

1. 1 inch long - 1/2 inch wide - 1/4 inch high

2. 1.25 inches long - 3/4 inch wide - 3/8 inch high

3. 1.50 inches long - 3/4 inch wide - 3/8 inch high

4. 1.75 inches long - 1 inch wide - 2/8 inch high

5. 2 inches long - 1 1/8 inch wide - 1/2 inch high

6. 2.5 inches long - 1 1/4 inch wide - 1/2 inch high

7. 2.75 inches long - 1 1/4 inch wide - 1/2 inch high

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About Onyx:

Onyx is striped, semiprecious variety of the silica mineral agate with white and black, brown or red alternating bands. Its properties are the same as those of quartz.

Wedding anniversary: Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 7th year of marriage.

The name's origin: The word Sardonyx is derived from the Greek, Sard meaning "reddish brown," and onyx meaning "veined gem."

Varieties: Varieties of onyx include carnelian onyx, with white and red bands, and sardonyx, with white and brown bands.

Care and treatment: Onyx may chip or scratch rather easily, so store onyx carefully and never allow two specimens to touch each other.

From the stone history: The name onyx was used by the Romans for a variety of stones including alabaster, chalcedony, and what is now known as onyx marble. Roman soldiers wore sardonyx talismans engraved with heroes such as Hercules or Mars, god of war. They believed that the stone would make the wearer as brave and daring as the figured carved on it.

During the Renaissance, sardonyx was believed to bring eloquence upon the wearer and was regarded with great value by public speakers and orators. Cameos are cut from stones, such as onyx, where different colors occur in layers.

Sardonyx at one time was more precious than gold, silver, or sapphire. Sardonyx is always widely used in cameos and intaglios.

Shopping guide: Onyx is a rich-looking, affordable gemstone. It is often mixed with pearls to create elegant jewelry.

Healing ability: Onyx is used as a heart, kidney, nerve, capillary, hair, eye and nail strengthener. Onyx is said to help one sleep. This gemstone helps to eliminate apathy, stress and neurological disorders.

Mystical power: This gemstone eliminates negative thinking, it is also believed to sharpen the wits of the wearer. Onyx is said to bring spiritual inspiration. It is a great assistance in holding emotions and passions under control.