Shungite grey

Shungite grey is a natural gray-black pigment ground from shungite, a carbon-rich Precambrian rock from Karelia in northwest Russia. It is a lighter grade than our Shungite black and gives soft, dark grays that are fully lightfast and resistant to acids, alkalis and lime. Use it in oil, acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor and gouache.

Key facts

• Color: gray-black
• Pigment type: Natural mineral pigment (carbon-rich rock)
• Composition: non-crystalline carbon with silicate minerals, mainly quartz
• Origin: Karelia, Russia (Lake Onega area)
• Opacity: opaque
• Lightfastness: 8 of 8 on the Blue Wool Scale (supplier data)
• Chemical resistance: alkali 5/5, lime 5/5, acid 5/5 (supplier data, 5 = best)
• Suitable for: oil, acrylic, egg tempera, watercolor, gouache
• Packaging: 50 g jar · 1 kg bag

How to use

Work the powder into the binder with a palette knife or muller: linseed oil, acrylic medium, egg yolk for tempera or gum arabic for watercolor and gouache. Shungite is fairly hard (Mohs 3.5 to 4), so mull it thoroughly. It needs relatively little oil, about 25 g per 100 g (supplier data), and covers well, but oil paint made with it dries slowly. Use it for dark grays, underpainting and toned grounds.

About shungite

Shungite takes its name from Shunga, a village on the north shore of Lake Onega in Karelia. The rock is about two billion years old: carbon from ancient organic sediments mixed with quartz and other silicates. Its carbon content varies widely, from a few percent to almost pure carbon (supplier data), which is why shungite pigments range from black to gray.

Safety

Shungite rock contains quartz (crystalline silica): avoid breathing the dust. Handle dry pigment with care: avoid breathing the dust and contact with eyes. Wear a dust mask (FFP2/N95) and gloves when working with the powder, work in a well-ventilated area and wipe up spills with a damp cloth. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working; wash your hands afterwards. Keep away from children and pets. For artistic and technical use only — not for cosmetics, food or tattoos.

FAQ

How is Shungite grey different from Shungite black?

Both come from Karelian shungite rock. Shungite grey is a lighter gray-black grade; Shungite black is a deep black with a slightly bluish tone.

Is Shungite grey lightfast?

Yes. The supplier rates it 8 of 8 on the Blue Wool Scale, and it resists acids, alkalis and lime (5 of 5).

Does it have a Colour Index number?

We do not give one: the PBk6 code sometimes quoted for shungite belongs to lamp black, a soot pigment.