Shungite
Shungite (Amorphous Carbon) · Mineraloid / Collector Mineral / Protective Stone
Crystal System
Amorphous (Non-crystalline); typical habit is massive, grainy, or stony with occasional conchoidal fracture
Mineral Group
Native Elements (Carbonoid/Non-metal)
Chemical Formula
C (Elemental Carbon, commonly containing 30% to 98% carbon)
Formation Process
Metamorphic; formed through the metamorphism of ancient Precambrian sedimentary organic matter (plankton and algae) over 2 billion years ago
About This Crystal
Deep black to charcoal grey material with a distinctive sub-metallic to vitreous luster. High-grade 'Elite' shungite is silvery and glass-like, while common shungite is matte and stone-like. It is opaque with occasional gold-colored pyrite or brown veins (jarosite).
Physical Characteristics
Color: Black to silvery gray; Streak: Black; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 1.8 - 2.0; Tenacity: Brittle; Highly conductive of electricity
Optical Properties
Opaque; Lustre is sub-metallic to vitreous; No pleochroism or birefringence due to its amorphous, non-crystalline nature
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Karelia, Russia (specifically the Shunga village, Zazhoginsky mine); also found in smaller deposits in Kazakhstan and India
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 3.5 to 4.0; brittle and prone to scratching; fair stability but can be crushed under pressure; low wearability for rings, better as pendants
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water; avoid ultrasonics or harsh chemicals. It is soft and should be stored away from harder stones like quartz. Can leave black residue on skin or clothing if not polished.
Rarity & Value
Elite Noble Shungite (90%+ carbon) is Rare; common Shungite is abundant. Value is based on carbon content, luster, and size. Frequently sold as tumbled stones or pyramids.
Special Characteristics
Contains 'Fullerenes' (C60 carbon molecules), which are rare spherical carbon structures. Naturally conductive—testing with a multimeter or battery/LED is a common way to prove authenticity.
Lore & History
Named after the village of Shunga. Historically used by Peter the Great of Russia for its water-purifying properties. In modern lore, it is believed to shield against EMF radiation and ground the Root Chakra.