Updated as of June 2026
Shungite
A lustrous black carbon rich stone from Karelia, Russia, often polished into spheres and pendants. Folklore associates it with grounding and protection.
Price range$3 to $40/ct
Hardness (Mohs)3.5
ColorsBlack, Gray black
BirthstoneNone
AltGems Score How we score
4.2/10
Shungite pros and cons
Pros
- Strong value for the look
- Usually sold untreated
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 3.5, best in protected settings
- Opaque, so it shows color rather than sparkle
Shungite is best kept for earrings, pendants, and protected settings rather than rough daily wear.
Explore Shungite
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestShungite jewelry
Shungite ringsShungite engagement ringsShungite necklacesShungite pendantsShungite earringsShungite bracelets
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 3.5) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Soft and can leave residue. Wipe with a dry soft cloth and avoid long water contact. Keep away from ultrasonic cleaners and chemicals.
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Black · Mohs 10Where to buy Shungite: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Shungite?
A lustrous black carbon rich stone from Karelia, Russia, often polished into spheres and pendants. Folklore associates it with grounding and protection. It rates 3.5 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in black, gray black.
How much does Shungite cost?
Shungite typically runs about $3 to $40 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Shungite price guide for detail.
Is Shungite good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 3.5 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Shungite?
Shungite earns an overall AltGems Score of 4.2 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Shungite?
Soft and can leave residue. Wipe with a dry soft cloth and avoid long water contact. Keep away from ultrasonic cleaners and chemicals.