Light Up Your Kitchen With Backlit Onyx Countertops

Onyx countertops offer a luxurious and eye-catching focal point in any kitchen or bathroom. But when backlit with LED lighting, onyx transforms into a truly stunning showpiece that seems to glow from within. The subtle illumination highlights the natural veining and translucence of onyx, creating dimension and ambiance unlike any other surface.

You'll learn the basics of onyx as a material, how to install lighting to properly backlight the stone, design ideas to make the most of this special effect, costs, and maintenance tips. With the right information, you can easily add this gorgeous feature to your home.

What is Onyx?

Onyx is a type of banded calcite, a metamorphic stone prized for its alternating parallel bands of translucent and matte layers. Formed from ancient limestone subjected to extreme heat and pressure, pure onyx comes in white or beige with distinctive veining in earth tones, though it can be dyed other colors. Onyx has a stunning glossy polish and has long been used decoratively in everything from jewelry to architecture.

Thanks to its semi-translucent nature, onyx is perfectly suited for backlighting. When lit from below, the stone seems to glow, revealing its subtle banding and translucence. The effect adds both beauty and drama to kitchen countertops, bar tops, bathroom vanities, walls, and more. Backlit onyx provides endless design possibilities.

How to Backlight Onyx Countertops

Achieving a flawless backlit effect requires careful planning and execution. The key steps include:

Choosing and Placing LED Lights

LED panel lights or LED light strips work best to backlight onyx slabs. Opt for LEDs that provide even illumination across the entire surface area to avoid uneven "hot spots." Measure the size of your countertop and place LEDs accordingly, following the manufacturer's recommendations for spacing.

LEDs can mount underneath cabinetry or on the wall approximately 1-2 inches behind the onyx. Allow space for lighting when designing cabinetry or prepare to alter existing cabinets.

Connecting Power Supply and Wiring

For a seamless look, hardwire LED panels into a 12V power supply mounted inside a nearby cabinet or junction box. Hire an experienced electrician to connect the wiring correctly. Alternatively, some LED backlighting comes with plug-in power cords.

Consider wiring lights to a dimmer switch for adjustable brightness. Dimmers give you complete control over the backlighting, from a subtle glow to full illumination.

LED Panel Options for Backlighting

The most important factors for LED backlighting include:

• Coverage area - Choose the right number, size, and shape of LEDs.
• Color temperature - Stick to soft white or warm white (3000K - 4000K).
• Spacing - Follow manufacturer spacing guidelines, usually 1-3 inches from the onyx.
• Ease of installation - Opt for hardwired or plug-in panels designed for backlighting uses.

Well-designed LED panels distribute light evenly across the surface for flawless illumination. Buy from reputable lighting brands to ensure quality and longevity.

Powering LED Backlights

Your electrician can hardwire LED panels into a standard junction box with a 12V power supply, just like any other permanently installed lighting. Include a dimmer for control over the brightness level.

For a removable option, choose plug-in LED panels or strips that plug into an ordinary outlet. This offers flexibility if you want to change the lights down the road. Just make sure to conceal the cords for a streamlined look.

Follow all local building codes when installing wiring and electricity. Improper electrical work can create safety hazards and fire risks.

Design Ideas for Backlit Onyx

From modern kitchen islands to spa-like bathroom retreats, backlit onyx adapts to any design theme when thoughtfully incorporated:

• Kitchen island accent
• Bold kitchen or bathroom backsplash
• Bar top or table surface
• Bathroom vanity countertop and wall cladding
• Backlighting behind wall-mounted onyx panels

Combine with glass cabinetry, undercabinet lighting, pendant lights, sconces, and other illumination features for a layered lighting scheme. A dimmer switch lets you control the mood.

Costs of Backlit Onyx Countertops

Expect to invest $200-500 for quality LED panels or strips, plus $100-200 for a dimmable power supply and wiring. The onyx itself ranges from $50-150 per square foot. With professional installation, a 10-square-foot island can cost $2,000-$4,000 depending on materials and features.

This high-end upgrade does add resale value and appeal to any space. And the possibilities are endless whether you want an affordable LED accent or an elegant showpiece.

Maintaining Backlit Onyx

Onyx requires regular sealing to prevent staining and etching. Use mild soap and water for cleaning, avoiding harsh acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface. Immediately wipe up spills as the stone is somewhat porous.

LED lights rarely require maintenance beyond replacing individual bulbs as needed. Clean panels periodically with a microfiber cloth. Ensure proper ventilation and airflow to prevent overheating.

Call an electrician for any electrical problems like flickering lights or power issues. Repair any stone cracks or chips as soon as possible to prevent damage.

Few materials capture attention quite like backlit onyx. The gorgeous glow elevates any space, whether you want an artistic focal point or a glamorous gathering place. The lighting transforms onyx into a one-of-a-kind work of art.

While a significant investment, the added drama and dimension justify the splurge. And thanks to today's LED technology, it's surprisingly affordable to illuminate your onyx countertops in style.

Let backlit onyx infuse your kitchen or bathroom with a contemporary yet timeless elegance. With proper planning and installation, you can easily enjoy this luxurious feature in your own home.