mineral

Shungite

Shungite (Non-crystalline carbon, C)

Hardness: 3.5 - 4.0; Color: Black or dark grey; Luster: Submetallic to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.8 - 2.0

Hardness: 3
Color: Black or dark grey
Luster: Submetallic to dull

Identified May 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5 - 4.0; Color: Black or dark grey; Luster: Submetallic to dull; Crystal structure: Amorphous; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 1.8 - 2.0

Formation & geological history

Formed from ancient biological sediments and organic matter metamorphosed over 2 billion years ago, primarily found in the Precambrian rocks of the Karelia region of Russia.

Uses & applications

Used in water purification, industrial pigments, metallurgy, and widely sold as jewelry or pocket stones for purported metaphysical properties.

Geological facts

Shungite is famous for containing fullerenes (buckyballs), which are spherical carbon molecules that are rare in nature. It is over 98% carbon in its purest 'Elite' form.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its light weight relative to appearance, characteristic black streak on porcelain, and its ability to conduct electricity (can be tested with a multimeter). Found primarily in Shunga, Russia.