The name of the deep black onyx comes from the Greek and translates as "fingernail". Presumably, its name is due to the fact that it works well on nails, skin and hair. In ancient times, onyx was one of the most important gemstones and was considered a protective stone against evil and black magic. For this reason, the onyx was often given to the dead as a burial attachment so that they are protected on their journey to the afterlife. Such finds were made both in Egypt and among the Greeks and Indians in America. The deep black, the light absorbing color and the finding of the stones in the dead has probably led to the onyx being also referred to as the unlucky stone. However, this term is still wrongly anchored in many minds. Today the onyx is used more and more often as a gemstone for the production of gems, lagestones and cufflinks. White mineral inclusions often create shapes in onyx that resemble eyes. Therefore, the frequent use of onyx for eye complaints can be explained. In the Middle Ages, Hildegard von Bingen also described the healing effects of onyx for ailments to the eyes, but also to the heart, stomach and spleen. Ultimately, however, it cannot be clarified whether she could not also have meant a black and white agate. Due to its rarity, the onyx can in some cases be replaced by black flint for stone healing.