Mexican onyx

noun

, Mineralogy.

1. a translucent, banded variety of calcite, used for ornamental and decorative pieces.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Mexican onyx¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Mexican onyx is a massive variety, streaked or banded with colors due to impurities.

From Project Gutenberg

Mexican onyx cabinet, presented to General Grant by the people of Puebla, Mexico.

From Project Gutenberg

In the centre of the florid carpet a gilt table with a top of Mexican onyx sustained a palm in a gilt basket tied with a pink bow.

From Project Gutenberg

"Oh, George!" he presently called across his slab of Mexican onyx; "come here."

From Project Gutenberg

It is found notably in the volcanic district of Mono County, and elsewhere, sometimes in the form of Mexican onyx, which is only a translucent variety of the same marble.

From Project Gutenberg