How do I identify Shungite?

Shungite can be identified by its hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale, Black color, Sub-metallic, Dull luster, Amorphous crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Shungite?

Shungite typically appears in Black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Shungite?

Shungite has a hardness of 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

Shungite

Rare

What is Shungite?

Shungite, originally coined in 1879, referred to a black, lustrous mineraloid with more than 98% carbon. In recent times, the term has expanded to include a metamorphosed Precambrian algal-derived oil shale or sapropelite containing more than 5% carbon. These two forms of shungite are primarily found in the Karelia region of Russia. Shungite with over 98% carbon, also known as Elite Noble shungite, makes up less than 1% of the shungite bounty, standing out with its remarkably shiny and smooth surface, deviating from the usual rough texture observed in other shungite.

Uses & Applications

Shungite is used for water purification due to its fullerene content, in EMF protection devices, as a healing stone in crystal therapy, and in construction materials. It is also used in metallurgy as a reducer and in paint and rubber production.

Healing Properties

Shungite is believed to purify and detoxify the body, protect against electromagnetic radiation, and boost immune system function. It is thought to ground spiritual energy, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote physical and emotional healing. Many use it for water purification and chakra balancing.

Optical Properties

Refractive Index: 1.8-2.4
Pleochroism: None
Optical Character: Isotropic
Dispersion: N/A

Discover Values

Rarity

4.3out of 5.0

86%

Popularity

3.5out of 5.0

70%

Beauty

4.0out of 5.0

80%

Cultural Value

4.0out of 5.0

80%

Collection Value

4.1out of 5.0

82%

Shungite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Shungite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Shungite Localities Map

See where Shungite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

The Meaning

Shungite is believed to be a powerful protective stone that shields against electromagnetic radiation and negative energies. In Russian folk medicine, it has been used for centuries for healing and purification. The stone is associated with grounding, detoxification, and spiritual protection.

Geochemistry

Shungite formed approximately 2 billion years ago from organic matter in ancient seas. It contains unique carbon structures including fullerenes, which give it distinctive properties. The rock formed through metamorphism of organic-rich sediments under specific pressure and temperature conditions.