Elegant Black Onyx Bracelets

To care for a black onyx bracelet, you should handle it gently, keep it dry, and protect it from scratches and chemicals. Black onyx is a form of quartz but is relatively soft and porous, ranking 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. It can be easily damaged by harsh substances or abrasions.

Best practices for wearing
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Put your bracelet on after applying lotions, cosmetics, hairspray, and perfume. The chemicals in these products can dull the onyx's surface.
• Remove for specific activities: Take off your bracelet before showering, swimming, doing chores, or exercising. Soaps, chlorine, and sweat can harm the stone and weaken the bracelet's stringing material.
• Limit sun exposure: Keep your bracelet away from direct sunlight for extended periods. Excessive UV rays can cause the color of dyed onyx to fade over time.
• Be mindful of impact: While onyx is moderately durable, a hard impact can cause it to chip or crack. Remove your bracelet during sports or other activities that could cause accidental bumps.

Cleaning a black onyx bracelet
Use a gentle cleaning method to prevent damage to the stone and bracelet materials. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or abrasive brushes.

Steps for general cleaning:
• Prepare a mild solution: Mix a few drops of a mild, phosphate-free dish soap with lukewarm water. Do not use hot water, as sudden temperature changes can damage the stone.
• Use a soft cloth: Dip a soft, lint-free cloth or a baby toothbrush into the solution. Wring out any excess water so the cloth is just damp.
• Wipe gently: Carefully wipe the onyx stones to remove dirt and oils. Use the soft brush to clean hard-to-reach areas around the stones or setting.
• Rinse and dry: Rinse with a cloth dampened with plain water to remove any soap residue. Then, use a dry microfiber cloth to blot the bracelet completely dry. Allow it to air-dry on a flat, soft surface.

To add shine:
For an added gloss, you can buff the onyx with a clean, soft cloth after it's completely dry. According to Azeera, a tiny drop of olive oil can also be applied to a cotton cloth and used to restore a glossy look.

Proper storage
Correct storage is crucial to prevent scratches, tangles, and other damage.
• Store separately: Keep your black onyx bracelet in its own soft pouch, made of materials like cotton or velvet, or in a separate compartment of a jewelry box. This prevents it from being scratched by harder jewelry.
• Keep flat: For strung or elastic bracelets, it's best to store them lying flat. Hanging them can stretch the stringing material over time.
• Avoid sunlight and humidity: Store the bracelet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause color fading. High humidity should also be avoided.