mineral
Shungite (or Black Onyx / Obsidian)
Amorphous Carbon (Shungite) / SiO2 (Onyx/Obsidian)
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
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Physical properties
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.
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.
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