What is shungite stone?

Shungite, with its deep black lustre, has a mysterious yet elegant allure, offering a unique charm to any jewelry creation. Beyond its captivating aesthetic appeal, this fine stone (formerly known as a semi-precious stone) is much sought-after for its virtues in lithotherapy, symbolizing protection and purification.

Discover our selection of shungite jewelry components, and get started with DIY jewelry-making. Our natural stone jewelry tutorials will guide you through the process of making unique creations that are sure to stand out.

Where does the name "shungite" come from?

The name "shungite" comes from the locality of Shunga, near Lake Onega in north-west Russia, where this stone was first discovered.
It is sometimes called Chingite or Schingite.

History of shungite

The origin of shungite stone is the subject of much debate, giving rise to the wildest hypotheses. One suggests that it was formed several billion years ago from marine deposits of ancient micro-organisms. Another idea is that it could be the remnant of a meteorite, bringing with it a fragment of the hypothetical planet Phaeton, which when destroyed would have contributed to the formation of our solar system's asteroid belt). Finally, some researchers point out that the composition of shungite shares similarities with that of volcanic rocks.

According to Russian legend, it was Peter the Great who inaugurated the first thermal baths in Russia, established above a shungite deposit. The spa, named Martsialnye Vody, was used for over three centuries to treat and soothe people's ailments. Recent analyses have revealed the presence of fullerenes, a molecule partially made up of carbon, in these thermal waters.
The Tsar even went so far as to advise his troops to consume a shungite-based preparation to effectively combat dysentery. These remedies were later dubbed "Waters of Mars". It is said that, during the last ten years of his life, he retired to the wellness center he had founded, in search of relief from various ailments.

In 1996, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences awarded the Nobel Prize for Chemistry to Robert Curl, Richard Smalley and Harold Kroto for their work on fullerenes and the discovery of their structure. Studies carried out by doctors at the St. Petersburg Military Medical Academy concluded that the use of these thermal waters could be beneficial in the treatment of many illnesses.

What color is shungite?

Shungite is a natural stone primarily recognized for its deep, matte black color, although it can present shades ranging from anthracite gray to charcoal black. It can also include slight veins or brighter chips on its surface, due to the presence of various minerals.
Because of its dark color, it is sometimes confused with other black stones such asblack obsidian,black onyx or black tourmaline.

What are shungite's properties?

It is composed mainly of carbon. Its hardness on the Mohs scale generally varies between 3.5 and 4. This means it is relatively soft. Its density is between 1.8 and 2.0 g/cm³.

Where is shungite found?

The main deposits of this gemstone are in Russia, particularly in the Karelia region.

What are the benefits of shungite?

According to certain beliefs, this black stone is particularly appreciated for its ability to absorb and neutralize negative energies. In lithotherapy, it is said to be an anchoring stone. It promotes detoxification and purification, and offers energetic protection. This stone is also associated with mental clarity, emotional stability and enhanced general well-being.

Which chakra for shungite? Shungite is often linked to the root chakra, helping to anchor and strengthen earth energies.

It's the stone of choice for the astrological signs Scorpio, Capricorn and Cancer.

Please note: our gemstones are not sold for lithotherapy. Natural stones are no substitute for medical expertise or treatment.

How do I clean and recharge shungite?

To maintain its protective properties, lithotherapists recommend regular cleansing and recharging of shungite.
To cleanse shungite, immerse it in a container of water for a few minutes, then dry it. You can also use sage fumigation.
To recharge, expose it to sunlight or moonlight for a few hours. To amplify this ritual, place your stone on a cluster of quartz.

How to use shungite stone

This natural stone goes perfectly with 925 Silver or Stainless Steel settings, emphasizing its natural elegance. For a bolder contrast, combine it with gold, Gold Filled or Gold Plated settings, highlighting its black depth. The combination of gold and black is always very chic.

Which stone to associate with shungite ? In lithotherapy, it is advisable to combine it withamethyst or rose quartz to amplify its purifying and protective properties. It can also be combined with other anchoring stones, such asblack obsidian,black onyx, labradorite or black tourmaline.
On the other hand, avoid combining it with stones with overly intense energies, such as carnelian or citrine, or with stones with specific energies, such as lapis lazuli or turquoise. It could potentially come into conflict with these stones, which could minimize its virtues and properties.