Few natural materials change character the way onyx does. In daylight it reads as a rich, veined stone. Put a light source behind it and the same slab turns into a glowing panel of colour. That is why backlit onyx has become a signature material for hotel lobbies, cocktail bars, reception desks and private residences.
This guide explains what makes onyx different from other natural stone, how to choose the right slab for your space, and what to plan before you order material for a backlit installation.
What makes onyx different
Onyx is a naturally translucent stone. Its crystalline pockets let light pass through, while the denser veining stays opaque. When the slab is lit from behind, those two layers separate: the crystal glows and the veins become a dark silhouette. The effect is closer to stained glass than to a typical stone surface.
Choosing the right onyx for your space
Colour sets the mood of the whole room, so start there. Our Onyx Collection covers five distinct looks:
- Exotic Pink Onyx: intense pink and violet crystal with rust and gold veining. Dramatic and luxurious when backlit.
- Blue Onyx: icy sky-blue fields cut through by bold veins of rust, copper and gold.
- Turquoise Blue Onyx: a vivid, clear turquoise canvas with a few sharp veins of rust and deep brown.
- Deep Amber Onyx: deep amber, fiery gold, cocoa brown and translucent ivory. The warmest glow of the range.
- Multi Color Onyx: hand-assembled semi-precious stone slabs in green, gold, ivory and purple.
Warm tones such as Deep Amber Onyx suit hospitality spaces and lounges. Cooler blues and turquoise feel fresh and contemporary in bathrooms, spas and modern reception areas.
Planning a backlit installation
A backlit onyx wall is part stonework, part lighting design. A few decisions made early will save time and cost later:
- Translucency. Ask for slab photos taken with a light behind them. Clear crystalline sections give the most even glow.
- Thickness. Our onyx is available in 18 mm, 20 mm or 30 mm, with other thicknesses on request. Your fabricator and lighting designer should agree the thickness before cutting.
- Book-matching. Sequential slabs can be opened like the pages of a book to create a mirrored, symmetrical pattern across a wall or bar front.
- Even lighting. Use diffused LED lighting with enough depth behind the stone to avoid hot spots, and allow access for future maintenance.
Where onyx works best
Onyx performs best where it can be seen and admired rather than walked on: feature walls, bar tops and bar fronts, hotel and office reception desks, statement vanity tops and bespoke furniture panels. We supply full slabs, book-matched pairs and cut-to-size panels made to your drawings.
Caring for onyx
Onyx is softer than granite and sensitive to acids, so it rewards a little care. Seal the surface after installation, wipe spills promptly and clean with a pH-neutral stone cleaner. Avoid vinegar, citrus and abrasive products. On bar tops, coasters and regular resealing keep the polish looking its best.
Get current slab photos
Every onyx slab is unique, so we photograph the actual stock you will receive. Tell us your project, quantity and destination and we will send current slab photos, sizes and a quote, or browse the catalogue first.
