Unlock the Ultimate Power in Skyrim: Mastering the Art of Obtaining Black Soul Gems

In Oblivion, black soul gems held significant value; however, in The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, they have become quite common 200 years later. These gems can be discovered as random loot, particularly in mage strongholds, and a small number of merchants offer them for sale. Collecting black soul gems is always worthwhile because they possess the exclusive ability to trap humanoid souls, which are amongst the most formidable souls attainable by players.

Although black soul gems hold immense worth, they are still an exceptionally rare type of gem, even scarcer than grand soul gems. This guide will provide information on where in Skyrim players can consistently find a reliable supply of this uncommon item, as well as instructions on how to create them using the more traditional varieties of soul gems.

Soul Gem Merchants

There are only two merchants in all of Skyrim who carry black soul gems. The first is Falion, a wizard residing in Morthal. Unlike most wizards, Falion does not spend his time in the Jarl's longhouse but rather in his own personal home near the docks. As a spell merchant specializing in Conjuration, he always keeps a stock of black soul gems. Interestingly, Falion is also the sole individual capable of curing the Dragonborn's vampirism, a process that necessitates a filled black soul gem.

The second merchant is Enthir, a mage who resides within the College of Winterhold. Players must either be members of the college or assist in expanding the Thieves Guild into Winterhold to gain access to his inventory. Enthir only opens his shop in the Hall of Attainment. If players speak to him outside this location, they can mention that he is an elf who can "get things done," prompting him to promptly head to the hall in order to conduct business. In addition to black soul gems, Enthir also offers a limited supply of daedra hearts, which are crucial for crafting daedric weapons and armor.

Soul Gem Crafting

In the Dawnguard quest line (accessible through the "Dawnguard" DLC or Skyrim Special Edition), players explore the Soul Cairn, an Oblivion realm. While initially preoccupied with the main storyline during their first visit, players have the option to revisit the Soul Cairn at any time after progressing in the narrative.

Scattered across the Soul Cairn are lightning attractors, objects that serve a unique purpose. By placing greater or grand soul gems into these attractors, players can trigger lightning strikes that transform the gems into empty black soul gems. It is important to note that this conversion process may consume the soul already trapped within the greater or grand soul gem, so caution is advised. However, activating a lightning attractor will also summon enemies to the player's location, so be prepared for potential combat.

The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is available now on PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.