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Shungite is an amazing stone for healing and energetic cleansing, but it’s controversial due to some of the claims that have been made about its use. I was recently interviewed for an article at mindbodygreen about the healing properties of Shungite. After our conversation, and since I receive so many requests for information about this popular stone, I felt inspired to share more with you about this non-crystalline mineraloid.
Before we dive into the healing properties of this stone and how to work with it, it’s important to note that not all Shungite is created equally.
The name Shungite was first used in 1879 to describe the high-carbon (98%+) mineraloids found in Russia near Shunga (in the Lake Onega area of Karelia). This high-Carbon variety of Shungite is the stone linked to claims of water purification and anti-bacterial properties. However, there are many other Shungite-containing minerals with much lower proportions of carbon. These vary greatly with the Carbon content ranging from less than 10% up to about 80%. The lower the percentage of Carbon, the lower the amount of fullerenes. Thus, the less likely the Shungite will live up to its reputation for healing and purification.
A Crystal Message about the Healing Properties of Shungite: “I cleanse myself of unwanted energy, I set healthy boundaries, and I am protected and shielded from that which is not for my highest good.”
Common Healing Properties of Shungite:
- Facilitates astral travel
- Create a protective energetic shield around your energy body
- Defends against EMFs or psychic attack
- Brings light to dark times in your life
- Energizes your body, mind, and spirit
- Transmutes negative or unwanted energy into positive energy
- Aids you in feeling connected to all beings and promotes feelings of universal oneness
- Enhances cleansing and rejuvenation
Zodiac Signs: Scorpio, Capricorn
Elements: Earth
Companion Flowers: Silver Sage (Salvia argentea)
Companion Essential Oil: Siberian Fir
Companion Stone: Malachite
Common Origins: Russia, India, DR Congo, Austria, Kazakhstan (there’s also reportedly a new find from Brazil and the Shungite there is commonly associated with Pyrite)
Notes: ‘Noble Shungite’ or ‘Elite Shungite’ refer to the high-Carbon variety of Shungite.
Wanna’ Get Science-y? Click Here to get more information about this crystal!
More About the Healing Properties of Shungite:
Shungite is a black, glassy mineral from the Karelia region of Russia. It consists of about 98% carbon, formed from the remains of algae that lived two billion years ago. The terms ‘Noble Shungite’ or ‘Elite Shungite’ refer to this high-Carbon variety of Shungite (98%+ carbon). Interestingly, some of this carbon comes in the form of fullerenes (aka “Buckyballs” – albeit in trace amounts of just 0.0001 < 0.001%). These fullerenes are similar in shape to a soccer ball, which have shown promise as a cornucopia of potential health benefits. Fullerenes appear to have antimicrobial properties, and possibly target such health risks as free radicals. Moreover, some use them as a purifying agent, especially for water.
These recent findings line up nicely with the traditions surrounding Shungite…
Shungite gets its name from the Russian village of Shunga where, people have long used Shungite as a folk remedy for purification, especially of water. For this reason, Peter the Great set up Russia’s first spa in Karelia to make use of this super mineral. In fact, Peter the Great even used Shungite to supply soldiers in the Russian army with purified water. With the high-Carbon content in Karelian Shungite, this wouldn’t have been much different than using a Carbon filter for water at home. And now modern scientists are investigating Buckyballs for exactly those properties! This is a fascinating case where modern science supports the traditional properties associated with a crystal. Some modern studies even show that Shungite has anti-bacterial qualities.
Although the metaphysical community has started creating Shungite water as a common practice, we always suggest erring on the side of caution with any crystal-infused waters. It can be difficult, or even impossible, to know what other trace elements or additional minerals are present in your Shungite stones. Therefore, we suggest only the indirect method of preparation for gem waters and crystal elixirs rather than placing your Shungite directly into the water you drink.
Metaphysical Uses of Shungite:
Shungite is an excellent grounding stone. So much so, that some believe that its energy helps bring your spiritual body down into the physical plane so that you can better integrate cosmic wisdom. Furthermore, Shungite is a powerful cleanser and banishes things from your life that drain your energy. Once you remove these things, you can rest without the chaos weighing you down and drawing your attention away from essential things. Moreover, many people know Shungite for the claims about its ability to purify energy. People have even used this ancient stone to charge water. Shungite encourages you to learn more, to do more, and to push onward. It also gets its fame for unlocking great cosmic mysteries. Finally, some say that Shungite can bring light during times of darkness or uncertainty.
One Way to Work with Shungite:
If you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed, try wearing a piece of Shungite jewelry. Any time you’re feeling overwhelmed, bring your attention to the place where the stone makes contact with your physical body. Close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Breathe in for a count of four, hold for a count of four, and then exhale for a count of four. This deep, rhythmic breathing will bring you back to your center and help create stillness in your mind.
Shungite Ritual:
To connect with the ancient wisdom of Shungite, place some dried Lemon Verbena leaves and a Shungite stone in a small pouch. Tuck it into your pillowcase. Before sleep, set the intention to experience and remember a meaningful dream. Let your dream provide you with guidance about something that needs healing in your life. Some say that Shungite is the perfect stone to help you uncover the cosmic messages that come through while you’re in the dream state.
Want to learn more about the different moon phases and how to use crystals to harness their unique energies?
The power of the moon and its long history of connection to magic and mystery and connecting with its energy can help you live in alignment and flow with natural cycles. That’s why, in my Celestial Crystals Course, I’ll teach you how to work with crystal energy and the lunar cycle to find inner harmony with the rhythms of nature, connect with 8 special goddesses, and create a moon magic practice to support you all month long!
You’ll learn powerful ways to amplify your connection with lunar energy, like…
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- Which crystals to use during each of the moon phases to embody and harness their energetic archetypes
- How to work with your crystals in meditation for each moon phase
- How to perform full-body crystal layouts for each phase in the lunar cycle
- A special 8-card Moon Phase Tarot or Oracle card spread for helping you gain insight into the best path forward, what to avoid, and what to release
- Step-by-step instructions for creating your own crystal-charged moon water
- How to create a crystal grid for tracking the moon through the lunar wheel
- Practices for New Moon & Full Moon Journaling for self-awareness
- Which Goddesses to work with and call upon for spiritual support during each moon phase
The moon, being our nearest celestial body, has such a deep impact on us. So as crystal healers, it’s important for us to be in flow with the natural rhythms of the universe. You’ll learn more about all of this when you sign-up for my Celestial Crystals Course!
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Are you interested in becoming a Certified Crystal Healer? Find out more about the CCH and Advanced Crystal Practitioner Program HERE!
16 Responses
So funny! Serendipity strikes again!
I just purchased Shungite two days ago. I actually had Sugalite on my wish list, and bought Shungite by “mistake”. I see now that was NOT a mistake, but source leading me, instead, for my greater good.
Thank you for the clarification!
Wow! What a divine moment! And of course. 🙂 Very happy it all worked out for the best for you! Crystal Blessings
Thank you so much for the video about shungite. I love your down to earth and practical approach. Here’s my experience with shungite. Whenever I used my mobile for more than 5 mins, my little fingers would begin to go numb. About 2 years ago, I bought a shungite bead bracelet ( the charcoal grey matt type), and I noticed that my fingers no longer went numb – unless I had forgotten to put it on. So , I leave it in my selenite bowl overnight and put it on every morning. Cheers Karina
Your kind words are very appreciated! So happy to hear that you enjoyed it. 🙂 That’s amazing! I’m happy you’ve had such a nice experience with it. <3 Crystal Blessings!
So.. I have in my collection of crystals.. what looks like it may be a shungite. When I bought it years ago.. I remember buying it with the name and the properties of the crystal.. but I lost the tag which came with the stone. It’s small.. and rather light in weight. I also remember part of the properties associated with this stone is to assist in Astral Travel. How can I know for sure???
You can compare it to photographs of quality shungite online or take it to a local crystal shop to ask. Some of found this to work as well: https://youtu.be/BtpKPpk-3FU Otherwise, you are welcome to post a photo of it to our Crystal Lovers Facebook Group so we can help you identify it! 🙂 Crystal Blessings <3
If you have a metal flash light the cheap led ones. Open up the back & take out the battery’s and touch the shungite where you unscrew the back end. If it lights up you got the real thing. If not then no- not real. Go on YouTube they have directions using Shungite with the flashlight video you can see.
Hi Marie, so interesting, thank you for sharing! <3
Great post Ashley!
Loved the podcast!
Given that there is a great disparity in quality of Shungite, how do I know if I have a piece and/or buy a piece that is of higher quality?
Great question! 🙂 Try and buy from a reputable seller selling noble shungite or elite shungite if you’d like to use it for its popular properties. But just to work with the energies discussed here in this blog post, any Shungite is fine. 🙂 Crystal Blessings!
Buy from Russia only.
Actually they have a good seller from Russia on Ebay.
Hi!! If I’m looking for a crystal to wear to help ease my chronic pain (as I deal w multiple surgeries and some health issues where the pain can only be managed). Is shungite a stone that would work well for someone like me? (Majority of pain is in pelvic area, Kidney stones, and lumbar spinal surgeries/pain. Do you have any other recommendations?
Thanks for asking. 🙂 As per our disclaimer, for medical advice you should consult a licensed healthcare specialist, as crystals are in no way meant to replace traditional medical treatment. <3 Many have found them to be helpful for energetic and emotional work! But it is still important to first refer to a professional in the medical industry. As far as the issues you’re referring to here, we’ve heard from many students that practicing with shungite has helped with energetic blockages & stresses in those areas, so if that is your intention that is a great choice. 🙂
Where can i buy trusted high carbon. russian shungite?
Hi Wendy! Ashley recommends the Lunar Fae Shop – https://etsy.me/1ANITBD 🙂 Happy shopping!