Shungite, originally coined in 1879, referred to a black, lustrous mineraloid with more than 98% carbon. In recent times, the term has expanded to include a metamorphosed Precambrian algal-derived oil shale or sapropelite containing more than 5% carbon. These two forms of shungite are primarily found in the Karelia region of Russia. Shungite with over 98% carbon, also known as Elite Noble shungite, makes up less than 1% of the shungite bounty, standing out with its remarkably shiny and smooth surface, deviating from the usual rough texture observed in other shungite.
Hardness:
3.5 - 4
Density:
2.2 g/cm³
On This Page
Properties
Values
Market Price
How to Care
Real vs Fake
Characteristics
Common Questions
General Info About Shungite
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Physical Properties of Shungite
Luster
Sub-metallic, Dull
Diaphaneity
Opaque
Colors
Black
Magnetism
Non-magnetic
Fracture
Conchoidal, Uneven
Streak
Black
Crystal System
Amorphous
Hardness
3.5 - 4 , Soft
Density
2.2 g/cm³, Obviously Light Weight
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Chemical Properties of Shungite
Chemical Classification
Mineraloid
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Rarity
Rare
Collection Recommendation
4.1 out of 5
Popularity
3.5
Aesthetic
4.0
Rarity
4.3
Sci-Cultural Value
4.0
The Market Price of Shungite
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Rough/Tumbled Price
Smaller Than Hand (0-1.5in)
$5 - $30
Close Hand (1.5-3in)
$25 - $50
Equal To Hand (3-6in)
$50 - $100
Bigger Than Hand (>6in)
$100
How to Care for Shungite?
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Durability
Nondurable
Scratch resistance
Poor
Toughness of Shungite
Poor
Fair
Good
Excellent
Shungite displays poor toughness owing to specific structural characteristics, such as high carbon content and amorphously arranged impurities, increasing vulnerability to physical impact. Additionally, its natural voids or cracks enhance susceptibility to breakage during daily use.
Stability of Shungite
Sensitive
Stable
Shungite's susceptibility to water and heat exposure as well as chemical reactions classifies it as sensitive for daily use.
More Care Tips of Shungite
Real vs Fake Shungite
Real vs Fake - Expert Tips for Spotting Fake Rocks
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2 Ways to Tell if shungite is Real
Fake Alert Level:
Caution Needed
Materials such as Hematite, Coal, and Anthracite are commonly utilized to mimic shungite. It is advisable to purchase from reputable retailers and, if possible, request a certificate from a gem testing laboratory for authentication. Here are some handy tips to help you initially discern the authenticity of shungite.
