Upgrading special weapons in Elden Ring requires a specific type of upgrade material known as Somber Smithing Stones. Unlike regular Smithing Stones, Somber Smithing Stones are used only for unique or legendary weapons that cannot be upgraded in the traditional +1 to +25 format. Instead, these weapons go from +1 to +10 using Somber Smithing Stones ranging from rank 1 to 10. If you’re progressing through mid-game and are stuck trying to get your weapon to +6, then you’re going to need Somber Smithing Stone [6]. This guide will help you locate Somber Smithing Stone 6, understand the best farming spots, and explore alternate ways to acquire it, such as vendors or bell bearings.
Understanding Somber Smithing Stone 6
What It Is Used For
Somber Smithing Stone [6] is specifically used to upgrade unique weapons from +5 to +6. This is often the point in the game where the damage starts scaling significantly, and certain boss weapons begin to outperform regular weapons. You’ll need this stone if you’re using any weapons like the Moonveil Katana, Blasphemous Blade, or Rivers of Blood.
How It Differs From Regular Smithing Stones
Unlike regular Smithing Stones, which require multiple pieces for each upgrade, Somber Smithing Stones require only one per upgrade. This makes them more straightforward but also more difficult to find. Each upgrade tier requires its respective stone, so there is no flexibility in using a higher or lower rank stone for a different upgrade level.
Best Locations to Find Somber Smithing Stone 6
Elphael, Brace of the Haligtree
One of the best late-game areas to find Somber Smithing Stone 6 is in Elphael, Brace of the Haligtree. This is a dangerous zone filled with strong enemies but rich in upgrade materials. You’ll find multiple Somber Smithing Stones in this area either lying on corpses, guarded by enemies, or hidden behind environmental challenges.
Consecrated Snowfield
The Consecrated Snowfield, accessible via the Haligtree Medallion, also contains a few Somber Smithing Stone [6] scattered across the landscape. Search near cliffsides, ruins, and the frozen river area. Look out for corpse piles and tombs, which often hide these valuable items.
Subterranean Shunning-Grounds
Another reliable location to grab a Somber Smithing Stone 6 is the Subterranean Shunning-Grounds beneath Leyndell. This maze-like zone is filled with strong enemies and tight corridors. There are several stones in chests and tucked into small rooms, but be ready to fight off deadly foes guarding them.
Purchasing Somber Smithing Stone 6
Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearing [3]
To make Somber Smithing Stone [6] available for purchase, you’ll need to obtain the Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearing [3]. This item can be given to the Twin Maiden Husks at Roundtable Hold, allowing you to buy the stone directly with runes.
Where to Find Bell Bearing [3]
The Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearing [3] is located in the Haligtree region. You can find it inside a chest guarded by a Teardrop Scarab or behind a difficult boss. Once obtained, return to Roundtable Hold and offer it to the Twin Maiden Husks.
Vendor Purchase
After giving them the bell bearing, Somber Smithing Stone [6] can be purchased for a few thousand runes per piece. This makes it much easier to upgrade multiple special weapons without needing to search each time you need one stone.
Farming Enemies for Somber Smithing Stone 6
Farming in Late-Game Zones
If you’re looking to farm enemies for this upgrade material, consider running routes through areas like Miquella’s Haligtree or Mountaintops of the Giants. Some of the stronger enemies have a chance to drop Somber Smithing Stones, especially those wielding magical or other unique weapons.
Using Item Discovery Gear
Equip the Silver-Pickled Fowl Foot and Silver Scarab talisman to boost your item discovery rate. This increases the chances of enemies dropping rare upgrade stones like Somber Smithing Stone [6]. Make sure to revisit enemy groups after each rest at a Site of Grace.
Treasure Chests and Hidden Spots
Chests in Legacy Dungeons
Legacy dungeons like Volcano Manor and Elphael have treasure chests that frequently contain high-level Smithing Stones. Carefully explore hidden paths, optional areas, and challenge rooms. These chests are usually heavily guarded or tucked behind hidden walls.
Scarab Drops
Look out for the glowing white scarabs rolling around in certain areas. Some of these scarabs drop Somber Smithing Stones when killed. Be quick, as they will disappear if not defeated quickly enough. One reliable drop is located in the Mountaintops of the Giants.
Tips to Maximize Stone Usage
Don’t Waste on Early Weapons
Since Somber Smithing Stone [6] is relatively rare, avoid using it on weapons you’re not committed to using long term. Try to save them for end-game weapons that scale well with your build. Test weapons in lower forms before deciding to upgrade them beyond +5.
Check NPC Questlines
Some NPCs reward you with high-level upgrade materials during their questlines. Completing side quests like Ranni’s or Seluvis’ can sometimes lead to rare materials or access to unique upgrade paths. Be sure to exhaust dialogue options and revisit quest-related locations.
Track Your Inventory
It’s easy to forget what materials you already have. Open your inventory and navigate to the upgrade material tab to keep track of your Somber Smithing Stones. Knowing how many you currently possess will help you avoid wasting time farming unnecessarily.
Getting Somber Smithing Stone [6] in Elden Ring is a key step in powering up your favorite unique weapons to mid-to-late game levels. Whether you’re fighting your way through the Haligtree, exploring snow-covered ruins, or farming drops from tough enemies, every method has its own advantages. Unlocking the ability to purchase these stones with the Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearing [3] is the most efficient long-term strategy, saving you both time and effort. However, treasure hunting and exploration remain rewarding for players who enjoy the thrill of discovery. By keeping an eye on your inventory, choosing your upgrades wisely, and making the most of your farming runs, you’ll always have the Somber Smithing Stone [6] you need to take your weapon to the next level.