In recent years, shungite has gained worldwide attention—often called the “Miracle Stone of the 21st Century.” But with popularity comes misinformation and imitations. As shungite experts since 2015, our mission is to set the record straight and help you separate fact from fiction.

• What Makes Shungite Unique?
• How Did Shungite Form?
• When Was Shungite Discovered?
• Where Is Shungite Found?
• The Three Types of Shungite Explained
• What Is Shungite Used For?
• What Does Shungite Water Taste Like?
• How to Test Authentic Shungite
• Is Shungite Legal?
• How to Care for Your Shungite

What Makes Shungite Unique?

Shungite is unlike any other mineral on Earth. Although its chemical composition is carbon-based—similar to coal—its properties are vastly different. Unlike coal, shungite does not burn, is unaffected by pressure, and is much harder, ranking closer to diamond in strength. This ancient mineral is over 2 billion years old, formed long before life appeared on our planet.

The secret to shungite’s uniqueness lies in its carbon molecules called fullerenes. These rare molecules are known for their ability to attract and neutralize unnatural environmental elements, including electromagnetic emissions. [Read more about fullerenes from the U.S. National Institutes of Health.]

How Did Shungite Form?

Scientists believe shungite originated from the remains of ancient microorganisms that once thrived in shallow seas covering the Karelia region of Russia more than two billion years ago. Over time, their remains sank to the seabed, where immense heat and pressure transformed the organic matter into graphite. Eventually, this process created the unique form of carbon we now know as shungite.

The mineral-rich environment of Karelia—containing silica, iron, and other elements—further influenced this transformation.

Shungite deposits occur in two primary forms:

1. Regular Shungite – More common, less pure, and typically used in carved objects and larger pieces.
2. Elite Shungite – Far rarer and highly pure, believed to have formed under even more extreme geological conditions of heat and pressure.

When Was Shungite Discovered?

While the people of Karelia, Russia, have used shungite for centuries, its scientific recognition came much later. The first official documentation was in 1878, when Russian explorer N. N. Voronkov reported deposits in the village of Shunga—giving the mineral its name.

By the 1930s, Russian scientists began studying shungite more deeply. In the 1950s, they discovered its unique electrical and magnetic properties, sparking further research into its industrial and technological applications.

Today, shungite is valued worldwide not only for its history but also for its use in water purification, skincare, and EMF protection.

Where Is Shungite Found?

Shungite is primarily found in the Karelia region of Russia, near the border with Finland. The mineral gets its name from the village of Shunga, where the largest and most famous deposits were discovered.

All of the shungite used in our products comes directly from the Zazhoginsky deposit in Karelia, ensuring authenticity and purity.

Smaller deposits exist in other parts of Russia, such as the Lake Onega area, the Khibiny Mountains, and the Malyi Vudyavr deposit—but Karelia remains the only source of large-scale, high-quality shungite.

The Three Types of Shungite Explained

Shungite is classified into three types based on its carbon content:

Type I: Elite Shungite (Noble Shungite)	The rarest and purest form, making up less than 1% of all shungite deposits. Contains up to 99% organic carbon. Recognizable by its silver-black, semi-metallic shine. Highly fragile, manually collected, and never polished—each piece is sold in its unique natural shape. Known for having the strongest energetic properties. Elite Shungite Products Elite Shungite Pendant on Silver (3-5 grams) Elite Shungite Pendant on Leather (3-5 grams) XLarge Elite Shungite Pendant on Leather (9-12 grams) All Elite Products
Type II: Petrovsky Shungite	Contains 50–70% organic carbon. Gray in color and less commonly sold. Valued by collectors but less popular than elite shungite or black shungite.
Type III: Black (Regular) Shungite	The most common type, with 30–50% organic carbon. Black in color, industrially mined, and durable. Easily carved and polished into beads, pyramids, pendants, and other objects. The type most widely used in jewelry, home decor, and EMF protection products.

What Is Shungite Used For?

Shungite has been valued for centuries for both practical and energetic purposes. Today, its uses include:

• Water purification – Infusing water with shungite for a fresh, spring-like taste.
• Gardening & farming – Supporting healthier growth in plants and livestock.
• Food preservation – Extending the shelf life of produce in refrigerators.
• EMF protection – Reducing the energetic impact of Wi-Fi, 5G, and other electronics.
• Wellness & balance – Supporting emotional, physical, and energetic harmony.
• Home energy clearing – Placing pyramids in a room to create a grounding, protective environment.

What Does Shungite Water Taste Like?

Water infused with shungite often has a smooth, refreshing taste, sometimes described as slightly sweet, earthy, or mineral-like—similar to natural spring water.

The taste can vary depending on:

• The quality and type of shungite used.
• How long the water has been infused.
• The source and mineral content of the water itself.

Taste is subjective, but many people prefer shungite water for its refreshing and naturally clean flavor. Shop Elite shungite for water.

How to Test Authentic Shungite

There are a few simple ways to confirm your shungite is real:

• Visual Check – Genuine shungite is a natural stone and may contain inclusions of quartz, pyrite, or small veins. Perfectly smooth, uniform pieces are usually man-made imitations.
• Flashlight Test – Because authentic shungite is electrically conductive, it can complete a circuit:

1. 1. Remove the back of an LED flashlight.
   2. Place the shungite piece against the batteries.
   3. Watch as the stone conducts electricity.

For a more precise test, you can also use a multimeter or ohmmeter. Read here for more information on testing for authenticity.

 

Is Shungite Legal?

Yes—shungite is a naturally occurring mineral and is legally and ethically mined in Karelia, Russia.

However, due to its popularity, counterfeit products are common. Some items sold online may contain little or no genuine shungite. To avoid imitations, always purchase from trusted, reputable sellers (like us) who import directly from Karelia.

Note: Some countries may have regulations on importing or exporting natural stones, so check your local guidelines if you plan to resell shungite internationally.

How to Care for Your Shungite

Like any natural stone, shungite benefits from regular cleansing and recharging:

• Rinse under clean running water to remove dust and energetic buildup.
• Recharge in nature – Leave in direct sunlight for at least 2 hours or under the moonlight for 5 hours or more. Both methods help restore the stone’s natural energy.
• Avoid chemicals – Do not use harsh cleaners, which can damage its surface.

With proper care, your shungite will remain energetically strong and physically beautiful for years to come.