Rainbow Onyx: the complete guide
Rainbow Onyx owes its name to its bands in many colours, from red to yellow and from green to brown. It is a dramatic material, intended for surfaces where the stone takes centre stage.
History and origin
Multicoloured onyxes form when the minerals dissolved in the water change during deposition: each layer records a different colour. Varieties of this kind circulate on the international market under different trade names. They are used in luxury interiors and retail, where strong visual impact is needed. Marmi di Carrara supplies it on request.
Look and veining
The bands are dense, parallel or slightly wavy, with sharp transitions between warm and cool colours. Variation is very high: two slabs from the same block can look different, and bookmatching makes it possible to obtain mirrored patterns. Polished, it shows vivid, deep colours; honed, it looks softer and more natural.
Technical properties (indicative)
| Classification | banded multicoloured calcareous onyx, translucent |
|---|---|
| Bulk density | approx. 2,700 kg/m³ (indicative) |
| Mohs hardness | approx. 3 |
| Water absorption | low |
| Main use | interiors, decorative surfaces |
| Acid resistance | low: sensitive to acidic substances and limescale removers |
Recommended uses
Recommended for feature walls, tables, bar tops, bathroom vanity tops and furniture cladding. Not recommended where there is heavy foot traffic, sudden temperature changes or daily use as a worktop.
Care and maintenance
Clean with a mild detergent and do not leave liquids on the surface. The protector should be applied after installation and renewed according to use; small surface scratches can be removed by re-polishing.
Pairings
- plain white or light grey walls and furnishings
- burnished steel or matt black metal
- natural oak with a restrained grain
FAQ
How do you handle such a lively pattern in a room?
It is best used on a clearly defined surface, such as a wall or a counter, surrounded by neutral materials. This way the coloured bands stand out without tiring the eye.
What is bookmatching?
It is a mirrored layout: two consecutive slabs from the same block are placed side by side like the pages of an open book, creating a symmetrical pattern. With a banded onyx such as Rainbow the result is particularly spectacular.
Can it be backlit?
Yes, although the darker bands let less light through: the effect is an alternation of bright areas and more solid ones. Before ordering, it is useful to see a slab against the light.
How do I order it?
On request: send us the project or the dimensions and we will prepare a quote with photos of the slabs, numbered to allow bookmatched layouts.
Onice Arco Iris: available on request
We supply this stone as blocks, slabs, tiles and custom-made pieces. Tell us size, thickness and quantity: we will send photos of the available slabs and a quote within 24 hours.
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