Definition

A type of onyx that has alternating layers of brown and white colors, often used in jewelry and decorative items.

Example

The ring was made of beautiful sardonyx, showcasing its unique brown and white bands.

Conversation

I found this beautiful stone at the market yesterday.

Oh really? What kind of stone is it?

It's a sardonyx, and it has these amazing brown and white bands.

That sounds stunning! I'd love to see it sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Sardonyx** → It is formed from "sardius" (from Latin, meaning a type of reddish-brown stone) and "onyx" (from Greek "onyx", meaning claw or fingernail, referring to the stone's layered appearance). The word "sardonyx" refers to a gemstone that has layers of sard and onyx, often used in jewelry.

Memory Tip

Think of the reddish-brown stone ('sardius') layered with the appearance of a claw or fingernail ('onyx') — that's why sardonyx is a gemstone with these characteristics.

Visually Confused Words