Shungite

Shungite is an extraordinary, carbon-rich mineraloid estimated to be nearly two billion years old. Sourced almost exclusively from the Karelia region of Russia, it is the only known natural source of fullerenes with a hollow, cage-like structure that earned a Nobel Prize in chemistry.

Visually, Shungite is defined by its deep, opaque black color. It is typically available in two grades:

• Elite (Noble) Shungite: A rare, silvery-black variety with a metallic luster containing up to 98% carbon. It is fragile and usually kept in its raw, "glassy" state.

• Classic Shungite: A matte or polished black variety containing 30–50% carbon. This is the durable form used for carving into spheres, pyramids, and high-polish jewelry beads.