Onyx jewelry dates back to the Greek and Roman empires.
The Utah Geological Survey defines onyx as "parallel-banded chalcedony, and a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz." The term cryptocrystalline refers to onyx's microscopic quartz crystal makeup. Geology.com notes that onyx is a translucent form of calcite mineral. Onyx stone tiles are a beautiful building material but not recommended for heavy-use kitchen countertops or flooring. Instead it is a choice material for decorative backsplashes, inlay patterns and infrequently-used countertops. Does this Spark an idea?
Surface Care
Onyx is very soft and scratches easily. Do not brush or scrape onyx tile surfaces with metal objects such as notched trowels, margin trowels or any metal-based tool. Apply sanded grout with extra caution as the grout's grit may scratch onyx. Consider using a less abrasive non-sanded grout as an alternative. Use a rubber grout float. Keep onyx tile surfaces dust, dirt and sediment-free during installation or cover unfinished areas with paper. Place onyx tiles face-up while cutting. Protect onyx tile during the remainder of the construction project by affixing blue tape to the tile's surface.
Bonding Agents
Use a latex-modified thin-set mortar or epoxy mortar mix for onyx tile installation. Do not use non-latex-modified thin-set mortar. Non-modified mortars do not bond well to onyx. Use a white mortar, not gray or any other color as they will darken and discolor the onyx. Remember that non-translucent setting materials negate onyx tile's translucent, transparent qualities.
Large Component Onyx Tile
Use an epoxy bonding mortar to pre-cover and strengthen large onyx tiles. Apply epoxy mortar to the back of large component onyx tile. Smear a 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick layer of epoxy setting mortar to the backs of pieces. Allow it to dry and strengthen the tile. Large component onyx tiles -- such as 18-by-18 tiles -- are brittle and prone to breaking or cracking; epoxy reduces the possibility of this problem. Disregard this step of your onyx tiles have fiberglass mesh and epoxy backing.
Maintenance
Seal onyx tiles -- initially and periodically -- with a high quality penetrating tile and stone sealer. Consider using a more expensive fluorocarbon aliphatic resin sealer. Fluorocarbon aliphatic resin sealer is special-order but doesn't lose sealant efficacy over time as traditional sealers do. Use a non-acidic pH-neutral dish soap or tile cleaner. Acidic cleaners stain or etch onyx tile.
Tags: onyx tile, onyx tiles, aliphatic resin, aliphatic resin sealer, component onyx
