Shungite — the cleansing stone

Physical and chemical properties of shungite

Shungite is a unique material that does not belong to the classic crystalline minerals. Its properties are mainly due to its carbon and fullerene content – molecules with unique chemical properties.

Types of shungite

Depending on the carbon content, there are several types of shungite:

1. Elite shungite (noble, type I)

• Contains 90–98% carbon,

• It has a metallic sheen,

• It is rare and expensive,

• It is mainly used in esotericism and lithotherapy.

2. Black shungite (type II)

• Contains 50–70% carbon,

• Has a matte, black surface,

• Most commonly used for water purification and jewelry production.

3. Regular shungite (type III)

• Contains 30–50% carbon,

• Used in construction and industry as a filter material.

Occurrence of shungite

Shungite is a rare mineral, and its largest and only significant deposits are found in Karelia (Russia), near Lake Onega. The age of these deposits is estimated at 2 billion years, making shungite one of the oldest known carbon minerals on Earth.

Applications of shungite

1. Shungite in jewelry

Shungite is used in the production of:

• Necklaces and bracelets – worn as protective amulets,

• Rings and pendants – used in esoteric jewelry,

• Carved amulets and talismans – popular among people interested in the energy of stones.

2. Water purification with shungite

Shungite has natural filtering properties, which is why it is used to purify water:

• Removes organic impurities, bacteria, heavy metals,

• Enriches water with minerals and microelements,

• Neutralizes free radicals thanks to fullerenes.

Shungite water filters are popular in alternative medicine and eco-friendly lifestyles.

3. Protective properties (electromagnetic shielding)

Shungite has the ability to absorb electromagnetic radiation (EMF), which is why it is used for:

• Neutralizing radiation from phones, computers, and Wi-Fi,

• Manufacturing protective screens against radiation,

• Harmonizing energy in rooms.

4. Esoteric and health properties of shungite

Energy and protection

• Considered a protective stone – neutralizes negative energy,

• Stabilizes emotions and improves concentration,

• Connects with the root chakra, supporting grounding.

Lithotherapy and health effects

Shungite is sometimes used in alternative therapy as a mineral that supports:

• Detoxification of the body,

• Skin regeneration,

• Strengthening the immune system,

• Relieving stress and tension.

There is no scientific evidence of its medicinal properties, but many people use it in holistic therapy.

How to recognize real shungite?

Due to the popularity of shungite, there are many fakes. Here's how to distinguish the original stone:

1. Electrical conductivity – real shungite conducts electricity, which can be checked with a multimeter.

2. Color – elite shungite has a slight metallic sheen, while regular shungite is matte black.

3. Scratches – real shungite can be scratched with a knife, but not as easily as carbon.

4. Water test – shungite does not lose its color in water and does not stain the water (fakes may do so).

How to care for shungite jewelry and items?

• Clean with a soft cloth and water – do not use chemicals,

• Avoid contact with cosmetics – they can weaken the surface,

• Store in a dry place – prolonged moisture can affect the structure of the stone,

• Recharge regularly – if you use shungite for esoteric purposes, it is a good idea to clean it under running water and expose it to sunlight from time to time.

Summary

Shungite is a unique carbon mineral with a wide range of applications in jewelry, water filtration, protection against electromagnetic radiation, and esotericism. Thanks to the presence of fullerenes, it has remarkable adsorption properties, making it an effective cleansing tool.

Although there is no scientific evidence of its healing properties, shungite remains a valued stone in both jewelry and alternative medicine.