Vanilla Onyx Cross-Cut Polished: The Glow of Natural Luxury
Infuse your space with the soft, moonlit radiance of the 12x12 Vanilla Onyx Cross-Cut Polished Tile. Unlike common marble, Vanilla Onyx is naturally translucent, allowing light to penetrate and dance through its surface. When cross-cut(sliced perpendicular to the natural veins), the stone reveals a breathtaking "cloudy" or "floral" pattern rather than linear stripes, offering a softer and more organic aesthetic.
The classic 12x12 format provides a balanced, symmetrical grid that is ideal for high-end residential foyers, spa-inspired bathrooms, and luminous kitchen backsplashes. When polished to a high-gloss finish, this tile creates a reflective, mirror-like surface that magnifies the stone's inherent glow.
Product Specifications
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Material: 100% Genuine Natural Onyx
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Dimensions: 12" x 12" (1.0 sq. ft. per tile)
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Cut Type: Cross-Cut (Swirly, cloud-like pattern)
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Finish: High-Polished (Reflective)
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Visual Profile: Creamy whites, buttery vanillas, and soft beige tones.
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Translucency: High (Suitable for custom backlighting projects).
💎 Maintenance & Care Guide
Onyx is a prestigious but delicate calcium-based stone (softer than granite or porcelain). Follow these steps to preserve its brilliance:
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Mandatory Sealing: Onyx is highly porous. You must apply a premium penetrating sealer (like Aqua Mix Sealer's Choice Gold) before and after grouting to prevent staining.
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Use White Thin-set Only: Because the stone is translucent, using a grey mortar will "bleed through" and permanently darken the color of your tile. Always use a high-quality white thin-set.
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Strictly pH-Neutral: Never use vinegar, lemon, or bleach. Acidic cleaners will "etch" the polished surface, leaving dull, white spots. Use only dedicated stone cleaners.
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Protect from Scratches: Onyx is susceptible to scratching from grit. Use walk-off mats at entryways and avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads.
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Soft Water Mopping: If you have hard water, use distilled water or a water softener for mopping to prevent calcium deposits from dulling the polished finish.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can Vanilla Onyx be used for flooring? A: Yes, but it is classified as Light Duty. It is best suited for residential bathroom floors, bedrooms, or areas with light foot traffic. It is not recommended for high-traffic commercial hallways.
Q: What is the difference between Cross-Cut and Vein-Cut? A: Vein-cut slices the stone with the grain, showing linear stripes. Cross-cut (this tile) slices across the grain, revealing the internal "cloud" formations and a more variegated, swirly look.
Q: Can I backlight this tile? A: Absolutely. This is one of the most popular uses for Vanilla Onyx. By installing LED panels behind the tile (especially on walls or bar fronts), the stone will emit a warm, ethereal glow.
Q: Is it suitable for a shower? A: Yes, but it requires professional installation. Ensure the substrate is 100% waterproof and that the stone is sealed on all six sides to prevent moisture from causing "vein washout" or discoloration.
Q: Why does my tile look different from the sample? A: As a natural stone, Vanilla Onyx has a V4 (Substantial Variation) rating. No two tiles are identical. We recommend "dry-laying" your entire order on the floor before installation to blend the different patterns and shades.
