Onyx Cufflinks

Cufflinks add elegance and flair to even the simplest, most basic, button-down shirt and have been around as a fashion accessory since the 1700's. Once a handmade luxury item of the rich and privileged, cufflinks are widely used in the modern world by both men and women of all walks of life. Available in a variety of styles they can come in one or two pieces.

Onyx cufflinks, because of the diversity available in the stone, are well-suited for almost any occasion. The black stone known as onyx is actually a form of quartz and can range from white to almost every color including purple and blue. While the black stone is the one most people are familiar with, the varieties with bands of color threading through them are more common. Not all onyx is natural though and some stones are the result of the staining of agate.

Cufflinks actually predate the shirt, though they are most commonly used with the double cuffed (or French cuffed) men's shirt. Black onyx has an extensive and colorful history through the ages. Seen by some as a source of protection and used during one period as a symbol of mourning, Onyx has biblical references and is the Hebrew stone for July. It is also believed to influence happiness in marriage and is widely used in New Age practices.

Natural onyx can be found all over the world. Both large and small deposits exist in places like Mexico, Brazil, India and Algeria. Onyx cufflinks can be an excellent conversation piece at social gatherings. Whether made from simple polished stones or intricately carved with elegant designs, or presented with a gemstone inclusion they are a symbol of sophistication every man of style should own.