Description
This Shungite Cube comes from the Zazhoginsky deposit in Karelia, Russia, one of the world’s only known natural sources of this Precambrian carbon-rich material. Estimated at over 2 billion years old, Shungite is not a crystal but a mineraloid — an amorphous carbon form composed of 30–98% elemental carbon, along with silicates, oxides, and trace metals.
What makes Shungite scientifically unique is the presence of fullerenes (C₆₀ and C₇₀ carbon molecules) — hollow, soccer-ball–shaped nanostructures discovered in the 1980s that earned the 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. These molecules are known for their antioxidant and electromagnetic absorption properties, inspiring research into Shungite’s use in environmental purification and EMF shielding materials.
Physical and Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral Class | Mineraloid (Amorphous Carbon) |
| Chemical Formula | Predominantly C (Carbon) with Si, Al, Fe, Mg, K traces |
| Crystal System | Amorphous |
| Mohs Hardness | 3.5–4 |
| Luster | Semi-metallic to dull |
| Electrical Conductivity | Moderate to high (due to carbon matrix) |
| Locality / Origin | Karelia, Russia |
Formation and Geological Significance
Shungite formed through metamorphism of ancient organic sediments — likely microbial or algal mats deposited in the early Proterozoic Era. Over geologic time, these sediments underwent thermal alteration under high pressure, transforming organic carbon into a stable, semi-conductive matrix of microcrystalline graphite and amorphous carbon.
This makes Shungite a natural form of reduced carbon, similar in chemistry to modern engineered carbon materials like graphene and activated carbon — but naturally structured and geologically ancient. Its conductivity and surface charge properties give it notable adsorption capacity for ions and organic compounds, a quality verified in modern environmental and materials science.
Scientific Applications and EMF Research
Laboratory and industrial studies have explored Shungite for:
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Water purification – due to its high porosity and surface activity, Shungite is used in Russian and European filtration systems to adsorb heavy metals, organics, and bacterial contaminants.
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EMF attenuation – research from Russian and Eastern European institutions suggests that Shungite’s carbon lattice and conductivity can reduce exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) by partially absorbing and scattering radiofrequency energy.
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Catalytic and antioxidant materials – fullerene-bearing Shungite has been tested for electron transfer reactions and advanced material composites for energy storage and shielding technologies.
While Shungite is not classified as a medical device, its electrically conductive carbon matrix gives it measurable electromagnetic absorption and ion-exchange properties, supporting its reputation as a natural purifier and grounding material.
Aesthetic and Collector Evaluation
The 1.25-inch polished cube presents deep metallic-black reflectivity and fine microfractures characteristic of genuine Karelian Shungite. Cubic geometry enhances its symbolic and visual appeal, representing stability and elemental order — while also maximizing flat surface exposure for display or conductive use.
Uses and Applications
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Collector specimen of rare natural carbon mineraloid.
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Educational display for studies in carbon allotropes, ancient geology, and nanostructures.
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Desk or workspace piece symbolizing balance, grounding, and EMF moderation.
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Environmental filtration demonstration material (non-consumable decorative use).
Metaphysical & Symbolic Associations
Traditionally, Shungite is associated with protection, cleansing, and grounding. It is believed to transmute negative energy and harmonize one’s environment — symbolic of carbon’s role in transforming energy and matter.
Care and Handling
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Wipe gently with a dry, soft cloth to maintain polish.
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Avoid submerging in water for prolonged periods to preserve cube integrity.
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Store separately to prevent scratching softer minerals.










