Caring for Onyx and Other Decorative Stones

Turkish onyx—especially Honey Onyx, White Onyx and Green Onyx—is widely used in luxury interiors, feature walls and backlit architectural elements. Because onyx is softer and more translucent than marble or granite, it requires careful cleaning and maintenance to preserve its beauty.

This guide explains the best practices for caring for onyx and other decorative stones supplied by Atlas Natural Stones, a leading Turkish marble, travertine, limestone and onyx exporter.

You may also want to read: Honey Onyx, White Onyx & Green Onyx from Turkey

1. Understanding Onyx as a Decorative Stone

Onyx is a calcareous stone, similar to marble but more translucent. Its vibrant veining makes it ideal for:

• Backlit feature walls
• Reception counters and bar fronts
• Luxury bathrooms
• Decorative slabs and panels

Because of its sensitivity, onyx should be cleaned with gentle, pH-neutral products.

2. Daily Cleaning

Use a soft microfiber cloth and a pH-neutral stone cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads, powders or acidic solutions such as vinegar or citrus-based cleaners.

3. Sealing Onyx

Onyx is highly porous and must be sealed with a high-quality impregnating sealer. This protects it from stains caused by:

• Oils
• Cosmetics
• Wine and colored liquids
• Bathroom products

Sealing should be repeated every 6–12 months depending on usage.

4. Backlit Onyx Care

Backlit installations require special care:

• Use LED panels that produce low heat
• Avoid direct water contact behind the panel
• Ensure proper ventilation to avoid moisture buildup

For more decorative inspiration, visit: Bookmatched Marble & Onyx Feature Walls

5. Repairing Scratches & Etching

Because onyx is softer than granite and many marbles, minor scratches may occur. Light polishing can be done by a professional stone restorer. Deep etching should always be handled by a specialist.

6. Where Onyx Performs Best

Onyx is ideal for:

• Vertical decorative panels
• Luxury reception/boutique interiors
• Accent walls
• Low-traffic bathroom areas

If you need harder stones for heavy use, consider reading: Turkish Granite Selections for High-Traffic Projects

Conclusion

With proper cleaning, sealing and handling, Turkish onyx remains one of the most striking natural stones available. Whether you choose Honey Onyx, Green Onyx or multicolored decorative stones, partnering with a reliable Turkish stone supplier ensures consistency and quality.