As I write this post, a polished piece of shungite stone sits on my keyboard, covering up a 'MacBook Air' logo. When I bought the piece the woman at my local crystal shop recommended I put it around my devices, but we didn't get a chance to talk about why.
This was after the pandemic started, and the little store was at capacity with six people inside and a line outside. Everyone seemed to be looking to improve their health, and to protect themselves from getting sick. Months later, I've kept the habit of keeping my shungite crystal close-by, but now I've started to wonder about it. There has to be a deeper story, I thought. And there is. One that starts about two billion years ago.
It's slightly misleading to find shungite beside amethysts, quartz and citrine crystals. Compared to the other stones, it is a little different. At first glance you might mistake some types of shungite stone for onyx, black tourmaline or obsidian, but dig a little deeper into what this stone is and what it does, and you'll quickly discover how much of a powerhouse is contained within.
In this post, we'll go over what shungite stone is, how its use has evolved over the past 300 years, shungite crystal benefits today, and how you can start working with shungite in your daily life to protect your energy and heal your body.
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Table of Contents
- The History of Shungite
- What is Shungite Stone?
- The Science on Electromagnetic Frequencies (EMFs)
- Why Shungite Stone?
- Shungite Healing Properties for Purification and Protection
- How To Know If Your Shungite Stones Are Real
- Protecting Yourself and Your Family From EMFs
- Key Takeaways
The History of Shungite
Shungite Stone 300 Years AgoÂ
Peter the Great, a ruler of Russia in the 1700s, is the first record we have of royalty using the stone for health-related benefits. He is specifically reported to have used shungite stone for water purification, and is said to have demanded soldiers in the Great Northern War between Russia and Sweden (really, Sweden?).
Even though there are many who don't know about or use shungite crystals today, as you can tell, it's been around for a while and its benefits have been known for generations.
Shungite Crystals TodayÂ
Fast forward to today, and people around the world use shungite stone for more than water purification: protection from the harmful effects of human contact with electromagnetic fields. Peter the Great and his soldiers in Russia would have had no idea the little black stones they were carrying around would mean so much to us years later.
Today shungite stones are still recognized for their purification properties, and for their grounding, stabilizing energy.
The methods to using shungite are almost deceptively simple, but have been found to be effective.Â
What is Shungite Stone?
The origin of the name 'shungite' is simple enough; it's literally derived from the place the stone was first found. A village where you can probably imagine this discovery was the most exciting thing to ever happen, in Shun'ga, Karelia (a republic of Russia) - as seen below.
Shungite Stone Types
Shungite stone is available in three types: type I, which is delicate and silver in color, and has the highest concentration of carbon (90% or more). Other names for this type of shungite stone are âeliteâ or ânobleâ. It is also very rare and very fragile.
Type II is sturdy enough to be shaped, and has a carbon concentration of 50 to 70%. This type is also known as âPetrovskyâ shungite. It is often a dark grey color or black, and is sturdy enough to be carved and polished.
Last is type III, called âregularâ shungite, and is also black. It has the lowest carbon concentration at 30 to 50% and is also easily shaped.
There are also other types of shungite, sometimes called âshungite rockâ, that have even lower concentrations of carbon.
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The Science on Electromagnetic Frequencies (EMFs)
There is science that proves the electronics we use every day are affecting our health. At the very least, we know that everything in our environment affects us. We're affected by the shows we watch, the music we listen to, even the quiet hum of an electric fan.
Our bodies and energy can pick up on subtle changes in our physical environments, so it's no wonder that the invisible networks that power our devices would affect us too. The only issue is how.
What Are EMFs?
Our computers, cell phones, televisions, baby monitors, modems, connected cars and devices all emit frequencies that are undetected to the human eye. These are electromagnetic frequencies, commonly called âEMFsâ.
Just because EMFs are undetectable doesn't mean our bodies arenât affected by these emissions.
To the casual observer, it doesn't look like there's any danger from using our phones or WiFi connected devices. But, if you'll allow me to go all Neil-deGrasse-Tyson for a moment, considering the history of human life on planet earth, we haven't had this technology for that long.
In a larger context, considering billions of years of life on planet earth, the internet has not been around for a long time.
If our ancestors had cell phones and computers and WiFi and 5G, maybe we'd have more information about what the effects are on our physical bodies. The truth is, despite 25,000 studies being published on the topic (according to the World Health Organization), the effect of EMFs on humans is not considered common knowledge just yet. We're still learning.
Every Day EMF
The real issue is with low-levels of EMF exposure. It's easier to see what the impact is for high level exposure. But what happens when we're exposed over long periods of time to EMF from our devices, being in wired cities, or even electrical outlets?
What the Studies Say (So Far)
According to the World Health Organization (WHO): "Despite the feeling of some people that more research needs to be done, scientific knowledge in this area is now more extensive than for most chemicals. Based on a recent in-depth review of the scientific literature, the WHO concluded that current evidence does not confirm the existence of any health consequences from exposure to low level electromagnetic fields. However, some gaps in knowledge about biological effects exist and need further research."
The WHO goes on to further admit that "[s]ome members of the public have attributed a diffuse collection of symptoms to low levels of exposure to electromagnetic fields at home. Reported symptoms include headaches, anxiety, suicide and depression, nausea, fatigue and loss of libido. To date, scientific evidence does not support a link between these symptoms and exposure to electromagnetic fields."
What the Studies Don't Say
But the WHO is a multinational organization, one that some would say has an interest in not sharing all of the facts.
In an article on the benefits of shungite, health writer Valerie Burke (who has a background in allopathic and integrative medicine, and a master's degree in nursing science, according to their bio) points to numerous studies that outline exactly how EMFs affect the human body. One study found low-level EMFs put stress on humans on a cellular level.
Then there are studies that show EMFs can increase the concentration of free radicals. According to Burke, "[f]ree radical damage is linked to anxiety, dementia, autism, ADHD, cardiac arrhythmias, depression, and infertility." As you can see, much of the damage caused to the body by free radicals sound similar to what the WHO calls those 'diffuse collection of symptoms.'
The good news is, science shows there are a few ways to mitigate the effects of free radicals and other harm from EMFs.Â
Why Shungite Stone?
Full of Fullerene
What gives shungite stone its power is a part of it's carbon composition, specifically a molecule called fullerene. These molecules are shaped and look kind of like soccer balls (which is why they're also called 'buckeyballs').
The reason they're special in the context of shungite stones, is because these are the molecules that are said to give the stone its healing and protective properties. Fullerenes act like a sponge for free radicals. So the more carbon shungite has, the more fullerene, and the stronger its ability to heal and protect.
Model of a fullerene molecule. Unaltered image from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0.
Shungite Crystal Meaning
Regina Martino literally wrote the book on shungite. A geobiologist and bioenergy expert, Martino specializes in stones and crystals, and has been studying the effect of shungite crystals on the body for over ten years.
When they first encountered shungite in 2006, they were studying how crystalsânot just shungiteâhave the ability to change human energy fields when placed nearby and worn on the body. Working on a team of researchers, Martino says they discovered that shungite was a natural source of protection for human life.
According to Martino and other experts, shungite crystals can neutralize EMFs. The stone is able to convert the radiation from our devices into energy that is not harmful to our own energy and bodies.
In terms of metaphysical shungite healing properties, shungite crystal meaning covers both physical and spiritual protection.
Shungite stone is said to be grounding, detoxifying and neutralizes and balances energies. It can protect from harmful energy forces (EMFs) and help shield from a toxic environment. If you're feeling physically or emotionally weighed down, shungite stone can do wonders for you.
Shungite Healing Properties for Purification and Protection
There are two common ways you can purchase shungite. It can come as chips in a small bag, or more polished in different shapes, either for jewelry or for your space. The last type of shungite is often type II or or type III. Although it has a lower carbon concentration than type I, it has been found to still provide protective benefits.
Shungite Crystal Cleaning
Before you start to use your shungite stones, it's important to clean them. No matter what type of shungite you have (Type I, II or III), the shungite crystal cleaning method will be the same:
- Take your shungite stone, polished piece or jewelry and wash it under warm running water
- Wipe the shungite crystal with a clean, soft cloth to remove any specks of dust or dirt
- Leave it to dry naturally in sunlight
Make sure you don't use any harsh chemicals or detergent to clean the shungite stone, as this can damage its surface.
Generally, there are three ways of using shungite that are most common:
Shungite in Water
Thanks to billions of years of history, and Peter the Great, we know that simply placing some shungite in water for 48 hours is sufficient for purification.
A study from 2017 showed that when placed in water, shungite is able to absorb bacteria, viruses, and pathogens. The study further found that the surface of shungite is able to absorb up to 95% of of contaminants in water. In the results of the study, they found the qualities of shungite made it â... an effective filter material for wastewater treatment and purification from organic and chlorinated organic substances (oil, pesticides, phenols, surfactants, dioxins, etc.).â
This all means that you can basically place some shungite in water and with time, your water will be pure of most of the stuff you donât want in it. Read our detailed post titled 7 Amazing Shungite Water Benefits (And How to Use Shungite for Water Purification) to learn more.
When looking for shungite, you have to know what youâre looking for. Shungite for water purification looks very different than jewelry or for in your home (which weâll get into later).
Types II and III often come with a fine black dust that you'll need to rinse off before using it. Elite shungite can be used in water and might need a little rinsing, but because of how itâs formed, it generally does not have the same dust.
Usually you can use a jug of water and just place the stones in side. If youâre using the type of stones that have black dust, rinse the stones before placing in the water you intend to use.
You can use the same stones for some time; some sources say you can use the same stones for purification for a year. Other sources say you never need to replace shungite chips for water.
According to an article published on Healthline, ingesting shungite water could help you with everything from allergies, sore throats and asthma, to chronic fatigue, autoimmune disorders, arthritis, and problems with the liver, kidney, and gallbladder. This, however, is based on theory. Because of shungiteâs properties, its believed water purified with shungite could help with a variety of ailments.
Aside from being ingested, shungite and shungite water can also be used on the skin. There are many ways to use shungite cosmetically, such as taking a bath using water or using shungite powder for a facial mask or scrub.
Shungite stones in water
Pro tip: Once youâre ready to change your water purification stones, donât throw them out! Once youâre ready to change your shungite stones, take the old chips and use them in your garden or potted plants. Just place the stones in the soil and let them do their work.
Wearing Shungite Jewelry
Types II and III shungite could be called 'fun shungite' because they can be molded into nearly any shape, large or small, which means you can readily find shungite jewelry in the form of bracelets, necklaces, rings, pendants, and more.
Some people report an immediate shift in their energy on holding or touching a shungite piece. In Shungite: Protection, Healing, and Detoxification, author Martino describes what it was like the first time their team handled shungite.
âThe first sensation we felt was that of a lightning-fast impact that spread up through the body, followed by a great expansion of life energy along with a beautiful feeling of substantiality or energetic density...â.
Martinoâs team has conducted studies on what happens when crystals are near the body, and found that compared to other stones, shungite expands the vital field the most. It also had the effect of âsignificantâ expansion of the first (or root) chakra.
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Not only did they notice this stone was able to balance all of the chakras, but the stone was also able to ground overall energies, specifically the bodyâs energetic field that is impacted by EMFs.
Martino and other researchers say that EMFs impact an energy called a âtorsion fieldâ. As a disclaimer, this phenomenon is not widely accepted by scientific experts. Nonetheless, those who say they have studied torsion fields note that a healthy field turns to the right, while unhealthy torsion fields turn to the left. EMFs, according to them, force torsion fields to the left.
Shungite, Martino says, helps protect the body against the negative effects of left-turning torsion fields.
This is one of the reasons why shungite is thought to be a highly protective stone. Not only is it said to protect human energy fields from the harmful effects of EMF, but because itâs a grounding stone it can help with building a secure and protected energy.
Wearing shungite jewelry or at least carrying a small piece in a pocket or bag during the day is one way to that many people protect and strengthen their energetic field.Â
Placebo or no Placebo?
How much of what people report experiencing with shungite stone could be explained by the placebo effect?
There are many doctors and scientists who discuss the human energy field but donât seem to be as enthusiastic about shungite as Martino and other shungite stans.
It could lead us to wonder: if shungite is as powerful as some say it is, why isnât it more widely accepted?Â
We also know how long it can take for science to catch up to what we already know. For years, meditation was considered âwoo-wooâ, to take a term from Oprah. These days itâs widely accepted that meditation is key to inner peace and focus.
When it comes to your body and your health, the experts donât know everything. While there might be some placebo effect, this points to the reason I call types II and II shungite âfunâ. If youâve never had a piece of shungite jewelry and find one you like, you can always try it and see how you feel with the piece in your hands or on your body.
Like Martino, you might feel an impact and expansion right away, and if you feel more grounded and aligned with shungite stone, thereâs nothing an expert can say that will change that experience for you.
Decorating with Shungite
In addition to jewelry, shungite is available in some very cool structures and toys. The stone itself has a distinct look, as if itâs keeping secrets. Whose secrets, no one knows. And when a little creativity is applied, the stark, black color with just slight hints of brown, white, and metallics, and solid weight of a type II or III shungite gives it a vibe that is equally as mysterious as it is magical.
So it makes the perfect addition to your home decor since whatever your style, you can probably find a shungite stone that fits. Solid skulls, pyramids, cones, cubes, and spheres of all sizes are common. As are more complicated geometric shapes like obelisks. There are shungite statues and figurines, dishes and plate ware. You can even find massage mats with shungite cones installed. And if you already collect stones and crystals, you might think adding shungite to your collection is a no-brainer.
But whatâs the point of all this?
As mentioned previously, some scientists have discovered shungite has a natural ability to neutralize the destabilizing impact of EMFs in the energy around us. This then creates a compelling argument for placing EMF slates or tiles under or around the places in your home that emit the highest concentration of frequencies, like having a disc that you put your phone on.
The research and experts suggest that just having shungite near devices can help neutralize EMF radiation, so placing a large tile under your modem, or a pyramid on your computer desk would be enough to protect your environment. Some experts say itâs fine to place a large pyramid or figurine somewhere central to protect a space.
Some shungite stickers or discs are made as an adhesive, which makes it easy to place on the back of a laptop or smartphone.
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Manifesting with Shungite
Thereâs another way you can use shungite that deserves at least a mention: for clearing, protecting and healing your energy.
Weâve discussed how shungite has been found to be an excellent grounding and centering stone. If you keep a piece in your home office or around your computer, you can meditate using the stone with an intention for being focused and centered at work, or whatever conditions you want to create.
Getting a stone that is shaped in a way that means something to you is a great way to strengthen this practice. A shungite egg, for example, might represent fertility and the birthing of new ideas to make more money.
Simply hold the stone and repeat a mantra a few times, while concentrating on the condition you want. Or you can hold the stone and meditate. You can picture the stoneâs energy going into you or the work youâre doing and imagine yourself focused throughout the day.
How To Know If Your Shungite Stones Are Real
Shungite has become more and more popular in recent years. With the recent boom in online shopping, anyone in the market for shungite stones needs to be aware that the fakes are out there.
To really know if the stone you have is real, youâd have to get some high tech equipment. And if you donât use or have those already, getting an authentic piece may require some trust and a little research (though youâre reading this, so you already have a head start).
1. The Look. As discussed, types II and III of this stone can be polished, though the stone is not solid black. This might be hard to see if youâre shopping online, but shungite stones will often have barely noticeable lines and specs on their surface. Types II and III shungite for water will most likely come in a bag, and as mentioned before, will have a fine black dust.
If youâre in the market for elite shungite, keep in mind this stone is fragile. Itâs not possible to shape elite shungite into pyramids or skulls. Type I shungite should appear ârawâ, meaning not shaped or polished in any way, and be handled with care. An elite shungite stone in the shape of a pyramid is probably not the good energy stone youâre looking for. Itâs a red flag.
2. The Feel. Polished shungite does not really respond to being scratched, so trying to damage the surface will not permanently alter the look of the stone. If you scratch your piece and black paint comes off⌠Well itâs not good news.
If you have a shungite piece in the shape of a wand, you could try using it on your smartphone. Shungite is a conductor, and its unique material makes it capable of interacting with touch devices. Instead of using your fingers, you could type out a text message using a wand or other shungite piece thatâs easy to handle. This video below demonstrates an easy and effective way to determine if your shungite is real with a flashlight.
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Protecting Yourself and Your Family From EMFs
Having shungite stones in your home and wearing a piece can help to neutralize the impact of EMFs, but there's more you can do to reduce your exposure to harmful radiation. Here are a few ideas:
- Turn off WiFi when you're not using it; especially while sleeping.
- Get outside in nature as much as possible, and if the weather allows, try grounding.
- Support your body's immune system by eating healthy, getting a lot of water and optimizing your sleep (meaning: keep your phone away from your bed).
For more ideas read our post:Â Top 35 Tips to Protect Against EMF Dangers That You Must Know
Key Takeaways
Ask anyone about the effects of electromagnetic radiation, and the topic of shungite may or may not come up. Available in esoteric and crystal shops across North America, the material is not quite a crystal, but its purported benefits rival that of any amethyst, moldavite, or citrine. Yet, it still remains a secret to thousands of people.
Some sources say the stone is pretty close to a cure-all.
It's been connected to helping with both physical and non-physical ailments. Perhaps the most interesting and unique of its healing and protective properties is the ability to cancel out the negative effects of electromagnetic frequencies, or EMFs.
There are many things we can do to protect our bodies, minds, and energies from the EMFs in the air all around us. Studies on shungite stones show that this ancient mineral can cleanse water, balance our chakras, and protect us from harmful radiation. Ready to give it a try?