onyx
masculine
onyx is the French word for onyx.
The word refers to a banded variety of chalcedony.
Meaning: a banded variety of chalcedony (noun)
Did you know?
- The word onyx shares the same root as the French word ongle meaning 'nail', reflecting the ancient belief that the stone's bands resembled fingernails.
- French artists often use the term marbre onyx to describe the translucent, banded stones used in luxury bathrooms, though these are technically different from true chalcedony onyx.
- In French jewelry and art history, onyx is often used as a generic term for any black polished stone, even if the mineral is actually obsidian or black tourmaline.
Examples in context
- Je trouve que l'onyx est une pierre magnifique.I think onyx is a beautiful stone.
- La bijouterie propose des colliers en pierre d'onyx.The jewelry store offers necklaces with onyx stones.
- L'onyx est une pierre noire très élégante.Onyx is a very elegant black stone.
- Il porte une bague avec de l'onyx.He is wearing a ring with onyx.
- Cet onyx présente des bandes blanches et noires.This onyx shows white and black bands.
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are looking at jewelry in a shop window.
- LucasRegarde cet onyx dans ce pendentif.Look at that onyx in this pendant.
- LéaIl est magnifique, Lucas.It is magnificent, Lucas.
- LucasTu penses qu'il irait bien avec ton style ?Do you think it would go well with your style?
- LéaOui, j'aime beaucoup les pierres sombres.Yes, I really like dark stones.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “onyx” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
