Bible Dictionary
Onyx
Onyx was a precious stone, or possibly a related variety of gem, used in the high priest’s breastplate and ephod. It was also counted among valuable stones in Scripture.
Definition
Onyx was a precious stone, although the exact identification of the Hebrew shoham is uncertain. It may have been a variety of onyx, beryl, sardonyx, or another related gem. The stone had a polished luster and could be worked into beautiful ornaments.
Biblical Usage
Onyx was placed on the high priest’s breastplate and on the shoulders of his ephod. It is also listed among valuable stones and is associated with the land of Havilah.
Historical Background
The supplied material distinguishes onyx from sardonyx by its banding and notes that ancient translations identified the stone differently, including as an emerald.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
A hail; claw; hoof, (Heb. shoham), a precious stone adorning the breast-plate of the high priest and the shoulders of the ephod (Ex. 28:9-12, 20; 35:27; Job 28:16; Ezek. 28:13). It was found in the land of Havilah (Gen. 2:12). The LXX. translates the Hebrew word by smaragdos, an emerald. Some think that the sardonyx is meant. But the onyx differs from the sardonyx in this, that while the latter has two layers (black and white) the former has three (black, white, and red).
Smith's Bible Dictionary
(a nail) is the translation of the Hebrew shoham ; but there is some doubt as to its signification. Some writers believe that the “beryl” is intended; but the balance of authority is in favor of some variety of the onyx. (“The onyx is not a transparent stone, but as the color of the flesh appears through the nail (Greek onyx) on the human body, so the reddish mass which is below shines delicately through the whitish surface of the onyx. There are several varieties. White and reddish stripes alternating form the sardonyx; white and reddish gray, the chalcedony. When polished it has a fine lustre, and is easily wrought into a gem of great beauty.”-Rosenmiller.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>on'-iks o'-niks.</p><p>See STONES, PRECIOUS.</p>