The four types
What the types meant traditionally
In classical Ayurveda, the types reflected the kind of rock the shilajit was associated with, and each was given its own properties within the Ayurvedic system. They sit alongside the classical rules for purifying shilajit before use.[1] They are part of a traditional framework rather than a chemical one; see traditional use in Ayurveda.
The types in today’s market
Almost all shilajit sold today is the dark brown to black resin that classical accounts associate with iron (lauha) shilajit. When a modern label says “gold”, it usually means one of two things: a marketing tier with no defined standard, or a blend with added ingredients. Neither is the same as classical sauvarna shilajit. See “gold grade” and “premium” claims and what “premium grade” means.
Can a lab tell which type you have?
No standard laboratory test assigns shilajit to a classical type. Testing can tell you the mineral profile and whether contaminants are within limits, which matters more for quality than a traditional label. See mineral profile testing and laboratory testing.
Reading “type” claims on a UK label
- Is “gold” a grade or a blend?A blend must list its added ingredients.
- Is there a definition?If a brand uses a grade, ask what standard it refers to.
- Is there a batch report?Laboratory results matter more than a type name; see reading a COA.
Frequently asked questions
What is gold shilajit?
In classical Ayurveda, gold (sauvarna) shilajit is one of four traditional types and is described as the rarest.[1] On modern labels, “gold” is usually a marketing term or a blend, not the classical type.
Which type of shilajit is best?
Classical Ayurvedic accounts favour iron (lauha) shilajit, which is also the most common. For a modern buyer, the batch laboratory report matters more than any traditional type.
Is black shilajit iron shilajit?
The dark brown to black resin sold today is the colour classical accounts associate with iron (lauha) shilajit. Colour alone can’t confirm type or quality.
Is “gold grade” shilajit better?
There is no grading standard for shilajit, so “gold grade” has no defined meaning. Compare products on their laboratory documents instead.
Does gold shilajit contain gold?
Classical gold shilajit is named for its associated rock, not for added gold. Some modern “gold” products add gold ash or herbs, which should be listed on the label.
What are the Sanskrit names for the four types?
Sauvarna (gold), rajata (silver), tamra (copper) and lauha (iron).[1]
Is iron shilajit high in iron?
The name refers to the classical category, not a measured iron content. Mineral levels are shown on a laboratory report.
Sources & further reading
Primary research, regulators and standards bodies are cited first. A source being listed here does not mean it supports every claim made by sellers; it supports the specific statement it is attached to.
- Quazi et al.. Shilajit review: "A powerful molecule of Ayurveda science". Pharmacognosy Research 15(3):455, 2023. View source (opens in a new tab) [Review]