How To Identify Fake Shungite

How To Identify Fake Shungite

Fake Shungite — Quick Guide

If you only read one page, make it this one! 

1) What real shungite is

Authentic shungite is geologically specific to Karelia, Russia. That origin matters. “Colombian shungite,” “Raquirite,” or “jet” are not shungite.

Types: Type I (Elite/Noble) — very high carbon, bright metallic sheen; Type II — darker, more matte, still conductive.

Health note: Avoid Type III (powders/composites). These are often non-conductive and can leach heavy metals. Do not use in water or as wearables/skin-contact items. We don’t sell Type III.


2) How Large Is The Counterfeit Problem?

Counterfeits are widespread. Industry estimates suggest 70–80% of “shungite” online is fake or mislabeled. Treat listings as unproven until verified.

Common impostors sold as “shungite”

  • Jet — fossilized wood; light in hand, typically non-conductive.
  • Raquirite — Colombian carbon stone rebranded as “Colombian shungite.”
  • Anthracite / bituminous coal — polished to look right, properties don’t match.
  • Painted or dyed stones — black coating to fool the eye.

Gimmicks like the “flashlight test” tell you nothing about composition.


3) Warning: Raquirite marketed as “Colombian Shungite”

Reality: Shungite is tied to Karelia’s geology. “Colombian shungite” is a marketing label, not a mineral category.

Feature True Shungite (Karelia) Raquirite (“Colombian Shungite”)
Origin Karelia, Russia Colombia
Carbon / structure Elite Type I ~high carbon; recognizable look/feel Unverified claims; not established as shungite
Conductivity Conductive; continuity test passes Often non-conductive / unproven
Peer-reviewed history Studied for decades No peer-reviewed body
Naming Type disclosed honestly (I/II) Rebranded for recognition

4) Verify in 60 seconds

  1. Ask origin + type: “Karelia, Russia” and Type I/II should be stated plainly.
  2. Conductivity: multimeter continuity/ohms should pass on Type I & II.
  3. Avoid Type III: powders/composites can leach heavy metals; don’t use for water or on the body.
  4. Price sanity: “Elite/Noble Type I” at bargain pricing is a red flag.
  5. Proof: ask for a quick meter demo photo/video or documentation.

Still unsure? Send me the listing—I’ll eyeball it.


5) Debunking the viral “Flashlight Test”


6) Real-world examples

Screenshot of a listing labeled ‘Colombian Shungite’ (evidence image, not a link)
Example listing labeled “Colombian Shungite.” Real shungite is Karelian.
Reference image explaining Jet (fossil wood)
“Jet” is fossil wood — lightweight, typically non-conductive — sometimes sold as shungite.

7) Certificate of Authenticity — included with every order

Every order from VerifiedShungite.com ships with my branded Certificate of Authenticity. It’s issued for your order and includes:

  • Order identifier (your name or order #)
  • Origin: Karelia, Russia
  • Product type (Type I / Type II) and description
  • Issue date and embossed seal
Certificate of Authenticity preview, branded and embossed
Preview — a printed, branded certificate is placed inside every box.

8) Who you’re buying from (not faceless)

VerifiedShungite.com is run by Gary & Faith Fong — real names, public videos, direct contact. Many “shungite” sites hide ownership. We don’t.

Email: gary@verifiedshungite.com  |  Blog: Fake Shungite Alert  |  Video: latest YouTube

Back to blog