One of the most essential resources in Elden Ring for upgrading special weapons is the Somber Smithing Stone [1]. This stone allows players to enhance unique and legendary weapons, which cannot be improved with regular smithing stones. For players aiming to get a head start in power early in the game, locating the first Somber Smithing Stone is a priority. Understanding where to find Somber Smithing Stone [1] and how to use it effectively is key to building a stronger character as the journey progresses through the Lands Between.
Understanding the Importance of Somber Smithing Stones
Somber Smithing Stones are different from regular smithing stones because they are exclusively used to upgrade special weapons typically acquired from bosses, legendary chests, or unique NPCs. Each tier of Somber Smithing Stone (from [1] to [10]) corresponds to a specific level of weapon upgrade. Somber Smithing Stone [1] is the very first tier, used to bring unique weapons to +1. Since special weapons only require one stone per upgrade level, finding the right tier is more important than gathering large quantities.
Where to Find Somber Smithing Stone [1]
1. Limgrave – Sellia Crystal Tunnel (Hidden Pickup)
One of the earliest places players may find themselves unexpectedly transported to is the Sellia Crystal Tunnel in Caelid, through a trapped chest in the Dragon-Burnt Ruins. Although this area is dangerous early on, a Somber Smithing Stone [1] can be found near the entrance, allowing players to grab it and escape quickly. Navigate carefully past the miners, grab the item near the site of grace, and fast travel out if needed.
2. Limgrave – Near the Church of Elleh
Northwest of the Church of Elleh, inside a ruined carriage found between the Gatefront Ruins and the Church, there’s a Somber Smithing Stone [1] located in a treasure chest. This is one of the most accessible early-game pickups for players who are just getting started and want to upgrade a boss weapon like the Reduvia or the Moonveil Katana.
3. Roundtable Hold – Twin Maiden Husks
Once players reach the Roundtable Hold, they can give the Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearing [1] (found later in the game) to the Twin Maiden Husks. This unlocks the ability to purchase Somber Smithing Stone [1] directly. Though not an early option, it’s useful for consistent access if missed during exploration.
Best Early-Game Locations to Farm Somber Smithing Stone [1]
For those seeking multiple copies of Somber Smithing Stone [1], there are a few notable areas where it appears in the world or can be looted from enemies.
4. Nokron Eternal City
This underground region, accessible after defeating Radahn, contains several stones, including Somber Smithing Stone [1]. This is more mid-game content, but it’s rich with upgrade resources and worth exploring when available.
5. Weeping Peninsula
In the southern region of Limgrave, players can explore the Weeping Peninsula. While it’s known for easier combat encounters, there are caves and cliffs that contain crafting materials and upgrade stones, including low-tier somber stones.
NPCs That Provide Somber Smithing Stone [1]
Aside from world pickups and shops, there are also NPCs and quests that provide this upgrade material:
- Smithing Master Hewg: Found in the Roundtable Hold, he upgrades your weapons once you’ve collected the appropriate stones.
- Iji the Blacksmith: Located in northwest Liurnia near Caria Manor, Iji offers upgrades and may have Somber Smithing Stones for sale after certain progression points.
- Raya Lucaria Crystal Tunnel: Though this area is more dangerous, it contains a number of crafting items including early Somber Smithing Stones.
How to Use Somber Smithing Stone [1]
To upgrade a special weapon with a Somber Smithing Stone [1], head to any smithing location, such as the anvil at the Church of Elleh or the blacksmith at the Roundtable Hold. The upgrade path does not require runes for the first few upgrades, making it simple to enhance your weapon to +1 using just one stone.
Upgrade Path for Special Weapons
The upgrade levels and required stones for somber-type weapons are as follows:
- +1 – Somber Smithing Stone [1]
- +2 – Somber Smithing Stone [2]
- +3 – Somber Smithing Stone [3]
- … up to +10 using [10]
This simplified system means players don’t need to farm multiple stones of the same tier, which helps when managing inventory and planning long-term builds.
Tips for Efficient Use of Somber Smithing Stone [1]
Save It for Strong Weapons
Since these stones are rare early on, it’s best to save Somber Smithing Stone [1] for a weapon you plan to use long term. Boss drops or rare weapons such as Moonveil or Wing of Astel are ideal candidates.
Explore Caves and Mines Thoroughly
Upgrade materials are often hidden in obscure corners or guarded by tough enemies. Don’t rush through mines check behind crates, along ledges, and inside tunnels for sparkling stones on the ground.
Use Runes Wisely
While early upgrades don’t cost many runes, higher-tier improvements do. Make sure you balance your rune spending between leveling up and upgrading weapons for best combat efficiency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wasting Stones on Underpowered Weapons: Some weapons look cool but have poor scaling. Research or test your weapon choice before using Somber Smithing Stone [1].
- Ignoring the Roundtable Hold Blacksmith: Players often forget to return to the Hold after acquiring materials. Make visiting regularly part of your routine.
- Rushing to Upgrade Early: It might be tempting to use the stone immediately, but waiting for a better weapon is often the smarter move.
Why Somber Smithing Stone [1] Matters
In Elden Ring, early-game decisions shape the mid- and late-game experience. Choosing the right weapon and upgrading it with a Somber Smithing Stone [1] ensures your damage output stays competitive and bosses go down faster. It can also unlock new movesets or scale better with your build stats, making gameplay smoother and more enjoyable.
Finding and using Somber Smithing Stone [1] in Elden Ring is a crucial step in progressing through the game’s powerful boss weapons. From hidden mines to ruined carriages, early-game regions like Limgrave and the Weeping Peninsula provide multiple opportunities to obtain this valuable upgrade item. By understanding where to locate it and how to apply it effectively, players can gain a major advantage during their journey across the Lands Between. Make the most of every stone, and let your unique weapons shine on the battlefield.