Onyx. Not the first material one thinks of for countertops. But this stone is wonderfully beautiful. Wonderfully rare. And wonderfully unique. Onyx makes a statement. In a way most other materials can’t. And match onyx up with some tasteful backlighting – and you have a look and an effect you simply can’t match.
However before you choose Onyx – there are a few things you need to know.
Onyx is fragile. Onyx countertops typically include a fiberglass backing compound to strengthen the slab and keep it together. Onyx is not extracted in slabs from the ground like other countertop stone materials. Onyx slabs are much smaller in size thus…
Onyx is soft. This can be a ‘wear’ problem. It scratches easily. Also another danger is acidic liquid. Meaning, if you spill vinegar, red wine or lemon juice on onyx you can dull or scratch the surface.
Maintenance is required. Onyx needs to be sealed properly and then cleaned with a special stone cleaner at frequent intervals to make it less-prone to scratching and staining.
Onyx is expensive. Actually, onyx is THE most expensive countertop material currently available. 
So… after all these negatives, you ask why would one bother with onyx. Well, there is no denying the sheer beauty of the stone. It comes in a variety of colors and the “veining” adds contrasting colors to make these slabs look like works of art.
The light hits it and instantly brightens up the room. For even more appeal, try backlit onyx, which has a wonderful glow that you can’t get any other way.
If you want a standout kitchen or bathroom – onyx countertops will give you exactly that.
If you are considering new countertops in onyx or any other stone material and would like referrals to excellent contractors or if you have questions as to how upgrading your countertops may increase the value of your home, feel free to call or text me at 412-613-4466. Or email me at sold@ericmckenna.com
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