mineral

Shungite (or Black Onyx / Obsidian)

Amorphous Carbon (Shungite) / SiO2 (Onyx/Obsidian)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3.5-4 for Shungite (6.5-7 for Onyx, 5-5.5 for Obsidian). Color: Deep metallic black to opaque pitch black. Luster: Vitreous to metallic-submetallic. Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: ~1.8-2.0 for Shungite.

Hardness: 3
Color: Deep metallic black to opaque pitch black
Luster: Vitreous to metallic-submetallic

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Shungite is a rare Precambrian carbon-rich rock of metamorphic or sedimentary origin, formed over 2 billion years ago from marine algae deposits.

Uses & applications

Polished into spheres or beads for jewelry, metaphysical healing stones, water filtration media, and ornamental collecting.

Geological facts

Shungite is unique for containing fullerenes (buckyballs), a rare spherical carbon allotrope with antioxidant and electromagnetic shielding properties.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its rich black polish, lightweight feel, and electrical conductivity (Shungite conducts electricity, unlike onyx or glass). Found primarily in Karelia, Russia.