Plated finishes are actual metal layers that are deposited out of solution with the use of an electrical current. The resulting layers are not very thick, but look like the real thing. Inexpensive jewerly uses plated finishes on necklaces and earrings- where heavy wear isn't present. A plated finish is in appropriate for rings, because the heavy use will wear through and destroy a plated finish. Fortunately black diamond is extremely durable as a gemstone in jewelry.
Black diamond is mined in England and desired because of it's mirror-like polish.
Like diamond, it is faceted to reflect light that strikes its brilliant surfaces. A magical stone, it is thought to preserve life. Black and White Onyx Black and white onyx is a stone first popularized in the ancient Roman days. The ancients developed a method of permanently coloring clean gray agate to a pure jet black color. This was done to develop a quality black gemstone, there is no true black onyx.