What is Shungite? How to Test Shungite is Real at Home?

What is Shungite?

Shungite is a black stone that is usually shiny and intense in appearance. It has been around for approximately 2 billion years, but it wasn't until the 1996 Nobel Prize-winning research that discovered antioxidant fullerenes within the stone that the world began to take notice of shungite. Springs that pass over shungite stones are typically turned into natural spas due to its cleansing properties - it is believed that shungite has purified water long before we began to use compressed charcoal or carbon blocks in water filters for the same purpose.

Different grades of Shungite

Shungite is available in many different grades, the highest of which is known as "Elite Shungite". Elite shungite is fragile and must be dug by hand, which means that it is difficult to cut and shape it, so it is often sold in its raw state. It boasts a glassy shine and may look very similar to raw obsidian. The "Regular" grade of shungite has a lower carbon component, making it less crumbly and this is the grade that you will often see cut, carved, and otherwise polished to a nice, matte finish.

Metaphysical properties of Shungite

Spiritually, shungite is known as the ultimate cleanser. It is said to absorb and eliminate anything harmful or hazardous to the body. Shungite is also said to calm and relax anyone using it, or is simply near it, and may provide a general sense of wellbeing.

How to check your Shungite is real?

The easiest way to check shungite is real is to check it is conductive. Due to its high percentage of carbon, shungite can conduct electricity and therefore complete a circuit. Here you can see a shungite pendant allowing electricity to pass through and lighting up the light bulb. This is a great way to test your shungite at home!