Another common error when cleaning onyx is soaking your jewelry in water. Because onyx is porous, it will absorb the liquid and become damaged as a result. Many individuals use ammonia or detergent to clean their jewelry, however this is not recommended for onyx gemstones. Ammonia can damage the surface of the stone and remove some of its color, while detergents contain chemicals that may be harmful to humans if ingested. If you do decide to soak your jewelry in a solution to clean it, make sure that it's safe for stones first. Onyx is a non-metal material and doesn't react with chemicals that would destroy other gems. However, just like any other piece of jewelry, if you soak your onyx for too long or use a weak solution, it could be damaged. You should also never put organic materials in a dishwasher or wash machine because they might release gases that are dangerous for gemstones. Black onyx is a type of bead made from volcanic glass. It can be clear or opaque and comes in many different shapes and sizes. Like all gemstones, black onyx has both its advantages and disadvantages. The good thing about onyx is that it is very durable and easy to maintain. If you wear your jewelry often, then it's a good choice because onyx keeps its style for years without needing repairs. Black onyx is also known to have certain properties such as stopping negative energy beams and witchcraft.