Shungite
Shungite is a carbon-based stone that was first discovered in the Shun’ga Village in Karelia Republic (northern Region of Russia). Named after the village in which it was discovered, this mineraloid was first described in 1879 and contains more than 98% Carbon. Although primarily found in Russia, Shungite has also been found in Austria, the Congo, India, and the United States.
In 1996 the Nobel Peace Prize for science was awarded to three scientists that found naturally occurring antioxidants within Shungite. These new forms of the element carbon, are known as “fullerenes” and have been used in scientific breakthroughs ever since. Peter the Great knew of Shungite’s healing capabilities and set up the first Russian spa near the deposit, to make use of its water purifying abilities. Peter even insisted that his soldiers carry a piece of Shungite with them to purify their water on the go.
