Shungite
Shungite, Type I (Elite/Noble Shungite) · Collector Mineral, Decorative Stone, Industrial Mineral
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline); lacks a defined crystal habit, typically occurring as massive, glassy, or fragmented chunks.
Mineral Group
Native Element (Mineraloid); Carbon-rich rock
Chemical Formula
C (Non-crystalline carbon with fullerenes C60, C70)
Formation Process
Sedimentary/Metamorphic; likely formed from the metamorphism of ancient biological organic matter in marine environments over 2 billion years.
About This Crystal
A lustrous, jet-black mineraloid with a distinctive metallic or sub-metallic vitreous luster. Elite shungite appears glass-like, exhibiting a conchoidal (shell-like) fracture patterns and silver-black reflection. It is lightweight and often contains small veins of orange or gold secondary minerals like pyrite or jarosite.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Jet black to silvery-black. Streak: Black. Cleavage: None. Fracture: Strong conchoidal. Specific Gravity: 1.84 to 1.98. Tenacity: Brittle. Fluorescence: None. Highly electrically conductive.
Optical Properties
Opaque; Singly refractive/Isotropic (as an amorphous substance); Sub-metallic to vitreous luster; no pleochroism or dispersion.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Karelia, Russia (specifically the Shunga village, Zazhoginsky mine area); typically found in geological Precambrian sedimentary basins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 3.5 to 4. Low durability; sensitive to pressure and scratching. Similar in hardness to fluorite.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with soft, dry cloth; avoid water as it can be porous or contain oxidizable minerals like pyrite. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Noble (Elite) Shungite is rare (comprising <1% of total shungite deposits). Value depends on carbon content (up to 98%), luster, and size. Generally affordable but significantly more expensive than industrial 'black' shungite.
Special Characteristics
Contains fullerenes (hollow carbon molecules); exceptionally high electrical conductivity for a non-metallic mineraloid; unique carbon structure.
Lore & History
Known as the 'Stone of Life.' Historically used by Peter the Great for its water-purification properties in Russia. Traditionally believed in crystal healing to provide protection against EMF (electromagnetic frequencies) and to ground the Root Chakra.