Shungite with Pyrite – Black Carbon & Gold – Shunga, Russia, 570g

An exceptional collector's item from the legendary Shunga region of Karelia, Russia – rare shungite with spectacular golden pyrite veins and clusters. The deep black, matte carbon matrix is ​​interwoven with lustrous pyrite bands that flow like golden rivers through the dark rock. Weighing 570 grams and measuring 12 cm in height, this piece showcases the fascinating combination of organic carbon (shungite) and metallic sulfide (pyrite) – two geologically contrasting materials united here in perfect harmony. The dramatic black-gold contrast makes every viewing a visual experience.

MINERALOGICAL FEATURES:
Shungite – The mysterious carbon
Shungite is a rare, carbon-rich rock found exclusively in the Karelia region of Russia. With a carbon content of up to 98%, shungite consists of a unique form of carbon. Its deep black, matte surface absorbs light almost completely, creating a dramatic contrast to the shiny pyrite inclusions. Shungite is approximately 2 billion years old and originated from marine organisms.
Golden pyrite veins
Golden-yellow pyrite bands and clusters flow through the black shungite matrix like luminous rivers. The pyrite crystals exhibit a characteristic metallic luster and form partly flat coatings and partly granular aggregates. This mineral paragenesis is geologically remarkable because shungite (organic) and pyrite (inorganic, metallic) form under very different conditions, yet occur together here. The golden veins follow the natural fracture lines and zones of weakness in the rock.

LOCATION: SHUNGA, KARELI, RUSSIA
The Shunga region on Lake Onega in Karelia is the only known source of genuine shungite in the world. The rock was formed approximately 2 billion years ago in the Precambrian era and is named after the village of Shunga. Its combination with pyrite is particularly rare, making these pieces highly sought after by collectors. Karelian shungite with pyrite is a rarity on international mineral markets.

TECHNICAL DATA:

• Dimensions: approx. 12 × 10.5 × 6 cm (H × W × D)
• Weight: 570 g
• Main mineral: Shungite (carbon mineral)
• Associated mineral: Pyrite (iron sulfide)
• Mohs hardness: Shungite 3.5-4 | Pyrite 6-6.5
• Color: Deep black matte (shungite), brassy gold shiny (pyrite)
• Location: Shunga, Lake Onega, Karelia, Russia
• Age: Approx. 2 billion years (Precambrian)
• Special feature: World's only location for genuine shungite, rare pyrite combination

Care instructions: Shungite may slightly stain upon contact (carbon). Dust with a dry cloth; do not clean with water (pyrite can oxidize). Pyrite can oxidize in high humidity – dry storage is recommended.

COLLECTIBLE VALUE & AUTHENTICITY:

We source our exhibits from carefully selected sources: mineral shows, private collections, and direct contacts at mineral sites worldwide. Every piece is checked for authenticity.

Ideal for collectors of rare rocks, lovers of geological contrasts, or as a sculptural decorative object. The combination of 2-billion-year-old carbon and metallic pyrite, the unique location of its discovery, and the dramatic black and gold contrast make this piece a special collector's item from Russia.

SHIPMENT:

Insured shipping in sturdy packaging. Collection in the Bergisches Land region is possible by arrangement.

If you have any questions about the origin, authenticity or other details, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.