Finding upgrade materials in Elden Ring can be a challenging and rewarding journey, especially when you are searching for rare ones like the Somber Smithing Stone 8. This material is essential for upgrading special weapons that scale with Somber Stones rather than the regular Smithing Stone progression. Whether you’re trying to take your favorite unique weapon closer to max level or exploring every hidden corner of the Lands Between, knowing where to find Somber Smithing Stone 8 will give you a major advantage in your build and combat power.
Understanding Somber Smithing Stone 8
Somber Smithing Stones are upgrade materials used exclusively for unique and special weapons these are often boss weapons, legendary drops, or other distinct items. Unlike regular weapons that require a multitude of standard smithing stones per upgrade level, special weapons only need one Somber Smithing Stone per level. The Somber Smithing Stone 8, in particular, upgrades these weapons from +7 to +8, a critical step before reaching their maximum +10 potential.
Why Somber Smithing Stone 8 Is Important
At this point in the game, enemies are getting tougher, and your gear needs to keep up. Upgrading a weapon to +8 can significantly boost its damage and special effects. This is especially important for weapons with high scaling attributes or unique skills that play a central role in your combat strategy. A fully upgraded unique weapon can mean the difference between victory and repeated defeat in challenging boss fights or PvP encounters.
Best Locations to Find Somber Smithing Stone 8
There are several locations across the game world where you can find Somber Smithing Stone 8. These range from being found as loot in dangerous zones to being purchased from merchants provided you’ve unlocked certain conditions.
1. Consecrated Snowfield
This late-game area contains multiple high-tier upgrade materials. Here are some spots in the Consecrated Snowfield where you can find Somber Smithing Stone 8:
- Yelough Anix Tunnel: Found in a chest after defeating the boss or exploring the deeper parts of the mine.
- Near the frozen river: Look behind some cliffs along the icy pathways. Some glowing skulls and corpses carry upgrade stones.
Enemies in this region are tough, so prepare accordingly before venturing too far.
2. Elphael, Brace of the Haligtree
In this secret and extremely challenging area, you can find several Somber Smithing Stone 8s. Elphael is dense with loot and guarded by powerful foes. Here’s how to locate them:
- Search corpses hidden along narrow walkways and secluded rooms.
- Defeat Cleanrot Knights and other high-level enemies who may drop upgrade materials.
Due to the difficulty of this area, it’s best to enter prepared with upgraded gear and plenty of healing items.
3. Crumbling Farum Azula
This dynamic and broken-down region is another high-level area with valuable loot. Look for Somber Smithing Stone 8:
- On corpses near the ledges and towers.
- In chests found in guarded rooms or after defeating dragon-like enemies.
Crumbling Farum Azula is not only rich in lore but also a prime farming ground for upgrade items if you’re willing to explore thoroughly.
Purchasing Somber Smithing Stone 8
Not all players want to spend time hunting for upgrade stones through exploration or combat. Fortunately, it’s possible to purchase Somber Smithing Stone 8 from specific NPCs once you’ve met certain requirements.
Buy From Twin Maiden Husks
The Twin Maiden Husks at the Roundtable Hold can sell you Somber Smithing Stone 8 but only if you give them the correct Bell Bearing.
- Somberstone Miner’s Bell Bearing [4]: Found in Crumbling Farum Azula near the Tempest-Facing Balcony site of grace. Defeat the enemies and search the area for a corpse holding the bell bearing.
Once you offer this bell bearing to the Twin Maiden Husks, they will add Somber Smithing Stone 8 to their inventory, and you can buy it with runes anytime.
Farming Runes for Purchase
Each Somber Smithing Stone 8 will cost a significant amount of runes. Farming them efficiently becomes essential. You can try the following methods:
- Mohgwyn Palace Rune Farm: Kill Albinaurics for fast rune gain.
- Sell extra loot: Weapons, armor, and other high-value items can be sold for runes.
Alternate Methods to Get Somber Smithing Stone 8
Enemy Drops
Though rarer than finding them as loot, some high-level enemies can drop Somber Smithing Stone 8. These include:
- Cleanrot Knights in Haligtree
- Ancient Dragon enemies in Farum Azula
While not the most efficient method, this can be a supplemental source if you’re already clearing enemies for XP or other items.
Hidden Areas and Secret Paths
Sometimes, Somber Smithing Stones are tucked away in locations most players miss on their first playthrough. Keep an eye out for:
- Illusory walls that hide hidden rooms
- Jumping puzzles that lead to secluded rooftops or balconies
- Chests guarded by mini-bosses
These hidden paths often reward exploration with valuable upgrade materials.
Tips Before Using Somber Smithing Stone 8
Before you spend your Somber Smithing Stone 8, consider the following:
- Choose your weapon wisely: Since Somber Stones are limited early on, upgrade weapons that suit your build and playstyle.
- Test weapons before investing: Use them at +1 or +2 to see how they feel in actual combat.
- Don’t spread your stones too thin: Focus on one or two main weapons rather than upgrading several.
This ensures that you have one high-level weapon to rely on for boss fights and endgame content.
Somber Smithing Stone 8 is a crucial item for upgrading special weapons in Elden Ring. Whether you’re diving into the brutal depths of Elphael, braving the lightning storms of Farum Azula, or simply unlocking vendors with the right Bell Bearings, there are multiple paths to acquire this rare upgrade material. By planning your route, choosing the right quests, and investing in the right tools, you’ll be well on your way to maxing out your most powerful weapons. Remember, a well-upgraded weapon can turn the tide of even the toughest battles in the Lands Between.