Where is Banded Onyx Marble found?
Calcite (a variety of marble)
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Open the appBanded Onyx Marble occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Banded Onyx Marble
Mexico
Significant deposits, particularly in Puebla and Oaxaca, known for producing high-quality, colorful banded onyx.
Pakistan
Balochistan province is a major source of green and multi-colored onyx marble.
Iran
Known for various colors, including white, green, and pink onyx marble.
Turkey
Produces a range of colors, often associated with travertine deposits.
Egypt
Historically significant deposits, often referred to as 'Oriental Alabaster'.
USA
Deposits found in Arizona, Utah, and California, often associated with hot springs or cave systems.
Collecting tips
- Geological Context. Look for areas with active or ancient hot/cold springs, or karstic limestone terrains with caves. These are the primary environments for its formation.
- Surface Features. Examine exposed rock faces for layered or banded structures, often with a waxy or translucent appearance. Weathered surfaces might be duller but still show banding.
- Acid Test. Calcite reacts vigorously with dilute hydrochloric acid (HCl), producing effervescence (fizzing). This is a key diagnostic test to distinguish it from true onyx (chalcedony) or gypsum alabaster.
- Hardness Test. Calcite has a Mohs hardness of 3, meaning it can be scratched by a copper coin. This helps differentiate it from harder minerals like quartz (Mohs 7).
Quick Check
- Color:
- Banded, various colors (white, cream, yellow, green, brown, red)
- Luster:
- Vitreous to waxy
- Streak:
- White
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