$6.00
Natural ½-inch Onyx dice, hand-carved in Pakistan from authentic banded onyx stone. Each piece showcases unique layers of cream, tan, honey, and olive green tones created through millions of years of mineral deposition. Perfect as a collector’s accent, gaming novelty, or decorative display — every dice is one of a kind.
In stock
These ½-inch Onyx dice are crafted from natural banded onyx, a variety of calcite (CaCO₃) or chalcedony quartz (SiO₂) depending on locality. The material used in Pakistani carvings is aragonitic onyx, composed primarily of calcium carbonate — not to be confused with the black silicate onyx found in jewelry.
Pakistani onyx is formed through layered precipitation of calcite from cold spring waters in limestone caverns, where mineral-rich water slowly deposits alternating bands of cream, tan, brown, green, and amber tones. Over millennia, these deposits solidify into solid onyx stone, which is then hand-cut and polished into unique decorative forms.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Type | Calcite (Aragonitic Onyx) |
| Chemical Formula | CaCO₃ (Calcium Carbonate) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 3 |
| Luster | Vitreous to silky |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque |
| Color Range | Cream, tan, green, brown, white, honey, and gold |
| Formation Type | Layered deposition from cold spring waters |
| Primary Localities | Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan |
Onyx from Pakistan is typically stalactitic or flowstone calcite, formed in caves and natural aquifers where calcium-rich water slowly evaporates. Trace amounts of iron, copper, and manganese oxides introduce color variations and distinctive banding patterns.
Over thousands of years, rhythmic mineral layering builds up translucent stripes that resemble natural topography — a characteristic feature that gives each dice its earthy, marbled aesthetic.
Size: ½ inch per side
Material: Natural aragonitic onyx (calcite-based)
Finish: Polished smooth for a glossy sheen
Color: Cream, tan, olive green, and honey banding
Origin: Hand-carved in Pakistan
Each die is hand-shaped and individually polished, resulting in slight variations that enhance its natural authenticity.
Aragonitic onyx is valued for its distinct sedimentary layering and visual demonstration of carbonate mineral precipitation. It provides a clear example of hydrochemical mineral growth in cave environments and is frequently studied in geochemistry and speleothem research.
For collectors, these onyx dice represent a fusion of natural history and human craftsmanship — a playful way to display geology in motion.
While these onyx dice are often collected for their artistry and natural beauty, they are also fully functional for casual and decorative gaming. Their weight and polished texture make them ideal for tabletop use when handled with care. Below are a few examples of popular games and the number of dice typically required:
| Game | Number of Dice | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yahtzee | 5 | A classic dice game emphasizing chance and strategy — perfect for showcasing your onyx set. |
| Farkle | 6 | Fast-paced point-based game that works beautifully with natural stone dice. |
| Liar’s Dice | 5 per player | A fun bluffing game — each player rolls their own set of five dice. |
| Craps | 2 | Traditional casino-style dice game; onyx dice make an elegant display version. |
| Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) | Varies (usually 7-dice set) | While D&D uses polyhedral dice, these onyx cubes make stylish companions for décor or thematic setups. |
| Board Games | Typically 1–2 | Many family games like Monopoly, Risk, or Clue use one or two standard six-sided dice. |
Beyond gaming, many collectors enjoy keeping one or two onyx dice on a desk or altar as symbols of decision-making, balance, and grounded energy
Decorative & Display: Excellent for desktops, curio cabinets, or game tables.
Educational Use: Demonstrates mineral layering and calcite precipitation in classrooms or geology kits.
Symbolism:
Believed to bring grounding and balance.
Associated with patience, stability, and protection in energy practices.
Represents luck and decision-making, making it a fitting form for dice.
Clean gently with a damp soft cloth; avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners.
Keep away from prolonged moisture exposure, as calcite is reactive to acids.
Store separately from harder stones to prevent surface scratches.
| Weight | 3 oz |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | .5 × .5 × .5 in |
