ONYX countertops and backsplashes – 8 PRO and CONS

According to ancient myths, onyx appeared from fingernails of the beautiful Goddess Venus, transformed into a charming natural stone. Moreover, onyx is associated with Saturn’s wisdom and is a symbol of lion's aristocracy. So, onyx presence in our kitchens as countertop or backsplash is the result of a magic created with such stories. In terms of practicality, this should be enough to consider an investment in onyx claddings. Whether we are talking about bathroom, kitchen or living room, the onyx claddings / onyx decoration objects have a specific role in your project. Decoration projects for areas that highlight onyx, could be hard to achieve with other natural stones. Here are the main issues to consider if you plan to decorate your kitchen with onyx countertop & backsplash:

1. PRO: Onyx countertops and backsplashes

Onyx is a natural stone from the limestone family, similar with marble, travertine and limestone.

• beauty – first of all, onyx is a rare natural stone, with a special beauty. Onyx claddings and countertops convey an amazing contrast between primary colors and the strips from the surface. This contrast establishes some magnificent game of lights, over the countertop and the backsplash as well. So, onyx countertops and backsplashes are spectacular and considerably different compared to other materials.

• translucent – such an effect can be enhanced by backlighting your countertop with a LED system that highlights its particular beauty. The backsplash can be installed so that it’s possible to use the same system for backlighting.

• added value – onyx is a precious and expensive natural stone. Considered luxury, onyx products will convey a remarkable added value into your decoration project, both in terms of price and especially due to their particular beauty.

• symbolism – if you value symbols and their meanings, besides elements and their corresponding vibrations, then an onyx countertop – backsplash structure could be very interesting for you. Keep in mind that in ancient history, onyx was deemed a symbol of courage and fluency.

2. CONS: Onyx countertops and backsplashes

• sensitivity to the action of mechanical factors – limestones are less durable natural stones and onyx is no exception. Massive products placed over onyx countertops might influence their appearance. Constantly using sharp objects near this countertop, might scratch its surface. And precisely due to being influenced by such kind of corrosive factors, onyx countertops might have a shorter lifetime, compared with other type of countertops.

• sensitivity to stains – onyx is influenced by corrosive food agents. Stains of food acids resulted from lemon, red wine, vinegar will remain on the surface, will modify the surface look and are removed with difficulty. Countertops subjected to splashing will require constant aftercare. For maintaining their original look, onyx countertops will need treatment on regular basis.

• fragility – onyx is a fragile natural stone, therefore your should reinforce your tiles. Fiberglass mesh back sheets for guaranteeing a durable backsplash.

• price – onyx is a rare precious stone, which translates into a higher price compared with countertops made from other types of stone.

CONCLUSION:

Kitchen decoration projects with onyx that involve countertops and backsplashes, but also bathroom decoration projects, are beautiful, besides adding a significant added value. Related to your kitchen, the rule for preserving its features is to use your onyx countertop for design purposes, avoiding to constantly use its surface. The second rule for enjoying a perfect countertop – backsplash structure is to use professional solutions for aftercare of these both surfaces.

PIATRAONLINE recommends the use of onyx in your decoration projects, for an absolutely fascinating design style. For more details, get in touch with us at +40.318.222.333 or e-mail at: export@piatraonline.com