Onyx

Onyx is a banded variety of the oxide mineral chalcedony. It is a rare stone, both in nature and in its unconventional use in countertops. The appeal of onyx countertops is their translucency, which means they can be backlit to show off their colours and mesmerising patterns in a soft glow. It’s a high maintenance material, though, with a fragile surface that needs to be sealed regularly and refinished occasionally.