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Sardonic

sar·​don·​ic | sär-ˈdä-nik

noun

A variety of onyx consisting of alternating layers of charred and white chalcedony

Sardonic or sardonyx as it is sometimes written, is a variety of onyx that consists of alternating layers of chalcedony - coming in a charred brown and white color. Its history dates back to Ancient Egypt when the stones were used to create intaglios and cameos. The stone was commonly worn in Ancient Rome alongside images and cameos of Venus and Mars and was a popular stone for Romans seals because of the utility of the stone. Sardonyx is the August birthstone and is commonly presented as beads for necklaces and bracelets.

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