Shungite is a rare, carbon-rich mineraloid that formed over two billion years ago. This ancient substance is found almost exclusively in the Republic of Karelia, Russia, near Lake Onega. The stone’s visual diversity is directly linked to its carbon content, ranging from a dull rock to a highly reflective, metallic material.
Visual and Physical Traits of Standard Shungite
The most common form of shungite is often classified as Type II or Type III. This standard variety is essentially a shungite-bearing rock, containing between 30% and 90% carbon, with the remainder being various minerals. In its raw state, it presents as a matte black or sometimes grayish-black mass, feeling dense and substantial.
The surface of raw standard shungite is typically uneven, rough, and may show natural fractures or layered structures. Due to its high carbon content, it often leaves a sooty, black residue on the hands when handled. This carbon dust is a natural sign of authenticity.
The luster of this common form is naturally dull or semi-dull, resembling coal or pitch. This appearance is present before any commercial finishing is applied.
The Distinct Appearance of Elite Shungite
Elite shungite, also known as Noble shungite or Type I, offers a striking visual contrast to the standard variety. This premium type is much rarer, distinguished by a carbon content that can reach up to 98%. This high purity level gives it a brilliant, highly reflective, silvery-gray color, appearing almost metallic.
The surface of Elite shungite has a pronounced, bright luster, appearing polished even in its raw state. It is significantly more fragile than the standard type, often fracturing with a conchoidal—or glass-like—break. Because of this brittleness, it is found only in small, irregular nuggets rather than large, solid chunks. These raw fragments sometimes feature subtle white or gold streaks, which are natural inclusions of quartz or pyrite.
How Processing Changes Shungite’s Look
Standard shungite is widely used for creating geometric objects like pyramids, spheres, and jewelry. Its lower carbon content makes it stable enough to be cut and carved. The polishing process drastically changes its appearance, transforming the naturally dull surface into a deeper, highly lustrous black. This polished finish gives the stone a sleek, almost mirror-like quality.
Polishing also highlights any mineral inclusions present in the stone, which may have been obscured by the raw, matte surface. Tiny veins of white quartz or flecks of golden pyrite become distinctly visible, adding subtle patterns to the uniform black material. However, because shungite is a relatively soft material, the polished luster can eventually wear down with frequent handling. This causes the surface to gradually revert to a more natural, semi-matte finish.