Onyx
AntiEtch®
Black Onyx
Multiple origins
OnyxAntiEtch® Candidate
Aqua Onyx
Turkey / Pakistan
ASTM C503Frost ResistantAcid SensitiveSealing RecommendedSofter Surface
Aqua Onyx
Photo coming soon
HardnessMedium(3–4 Mohs)
SoftHard
Acid SensitivityHigh Risk — Will Etch
SafeHigh Risk
Verify Before You Buy
Slab Yard Diagnostic Protocol
Limestone, travertine, and onyx are all calcite-based stones — they will react with acids and benefit from sealing. Your Stone ID Kit lets you confirm the chemistry and assess the slab's porosity before you commit.
From your Stone ID Kit
HCl dropper bottle (5–10%)Glass tileMagnifier
The full step-by-step protocol — including expected results and red flags — is included in your downloadable Buyer's Guide.
Stone TypeOnyx
Geological NameCalcareous onyx (banded calcite)
OriginTurkey / Pakistan
ASTM SpecificationASTM C503
ClassificationCalcareous — Consistent
Available FinishesPolished, Honed (Matte)
AntiEtch® FinishesPolished, Honed (Matte) only
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💡
Backlighting Compatible
Onyx is naturally translucent and can be backlit with LED panels for stunning visual effect. Popular for feature walls, bar fronts, countertops, and fireplace surrounds. Requires specialized installation with a light box behind the slab.
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Seam Staining Precaution
Aqua Onyx can absorb oils from fabrication adhesives, potentially causing darkening along seams and edges. Ask your fabricator to seal all cut edges with an impregnating sealer before applying adhesive, and to use a non-staining epoxy rated for natural stone. This simple precaution prevents most seam-staining issues.
🛡️
MORE® AntiEtch® Protection Available
Aqua Onyx is a calcareous stone susceptible to acid etching. AntiEtch® provides permanent protection against lemon, vinegar, and other common acids.
Learn More🔬
MB Stone I.D. Kit — Test Your Stone
Not sure what stone you have? This kit includes the tools professionals use to identify stone type, test acid sensitivity, check absorption, and determine the right care products.
Shop Stone I.D. Kit — $139.97HardnessMedium(3–4 Mohs)
SoftHard
Acid SensitivityHigh Risk — Will Etch
SafeHigh Risk
HIGH — calcareous; etches from acid
🔥Heat Tolerance
~300°F
💧Sealer
Yes (required)
Technical Details
ASTM SpecificationASTM C503
Mohs Hardness3–4
Absorption0.05–0.30%
Density (pcf)162–172
Compressive Strength (psi)7,500–15,000
Flexural Strength (psi)~1,000
Abrasion Resistance (Ha)~10
Thermal Tolerance~300°F
ClassificationCalcareous — Consistent
Geological NameCalcareous onyx (banded calcite)
OriginTurkey / Pakistan
Where can you use Aqua Onyx?
Tap an application to see the full recommendation.
🏠
Interior
🌿
Exterior
Recommended Conditional Not Recommended
Care Instructions
Maintenance recommendations for Aqua Onyx
🧹 Daily Cleaning
- Wipe surfaces with a soft, damp cloth or microfiber towel
- Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner — never use acidic or abrasive products
- Avoid lemon, vinegar, wine, or any acidic substance on the surface
- Blot spills immediately — do not wipe, as this spreads the acid
💧 Sealing Schedule
- Sealer type: Yes (required)
- Seal every 1–2 years for normal residential use
- Test with water drops — if absorption occurs within 10 minutes, it's time to reseal
- Always clean the surface thoroughly before applying sealer
- Allow sealer to cure fully before using the surface (typically 24 hours)
⚠️ Warning Signs — Time to Call a Pro
- Dull spots or rings where liquids have sat on the surface
- Visible cracks, chips, or separating seams
- Discoloration or staining that won't clean away
- Surface feels rough or gritty in areas that were previously smooth
- White marks or dulled areas from acid etching (lemon, vinegar, wine)
- Grout deterioration around the stone edges
🛒 Recommended Products
🧴
pH-Neutral Stone Cleaner
For daily cleaning. Avoid acidic or alkaline cleaners.
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Impregnating Sealer
Penetrates the stone to protect from within. Apply annually.
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MORE® AntiEtch® Treatment
Permanent acid-etch protection by Sureshine professionals.
🛡️ MORE® AntiEtch® Protection
Eliminate acid etching permanently. One application protects Aqua Onyx from lemon, vinegar, wine, and all common acids. Applied by certified Sureshine professionals.
Get a free estimateNeed professional help?
Get a free consultation from Sureshine’s stone care experts.
Premium Protection · MORE® AntiEtch®
Protect your Aqua Onyx
Aqua Onyx is a calcareous stone that etches from lemon juice, wine, and coffee. MORE® AntiEtch® stops it.
- Permanent acid-etch protection
- Invisible — keeps the natural finish
- Installed by certified pros
Alternatives to Aqua Onyx
Similar onyx stones and comparable options to explore.
