Volcano Manor inElden Ringis a mysterious and dark location nestled deep within Mt. Gelmir, offering players a blend of lore-rich exploration, dangerous foes, and worthwhile rewards. Among the many reasons Tarnished adventurers seek out this area is to locate high-level upgrade materials most notably, theSomber Smithing Stone 5. This rare item is essential for enhancing special weapons, and finding it within the shadowy halls and fiery chambers of Volcano Manor can be a significant advantage. For those looking to empower their unique weapons and continue progressing through increasingly difficult enemies, understanding where to find this specific stone is crucial.
Understanding Somber Smithing Stones
What Are Somber Smithing Stones?
Unlike regular smithing stones that upgrade standard weapons,Somber Smithing Stonesare used exclusively for unique weapons often boss weapons or those with special effects. These stones upgrade gear in increments of one per level, starting from +1 to +10. TheSomber Smithing Stone [5]is required to push a unique weapon to +5, a major boost in damage and scaling.
Importance in Elden Ring Progression
As players progress into mid-game and face tougher enemies, enhancing their weaponry becomes essential. A weapon at +5 offers significant improvements in both base attack and scaling, making a noticeable difference in combat effectiveness. For many players, acquiring a Somber Smithing Stone [5] marks a turning point in their build’s potential.
Volcano Manor Overview
Location and Lore
Volcano Manor is located on Mt. Gelmir, a region filled with lava lakes, fire-wielding enemies, and twisted abominations. The manor itself houses the Tarnished-hunting faction led by Lady Tanith and operates outside the standard path of the Erdtree. The location is rich with side quests, hidden paths, and valuable loot.
How to Reach Volcano Manor
There are multiple ways to access the manor
- Complete Rya’s questline to receive an invitation.
- Travel on foot through the treacherous Mt. Gelmir region.
- Use the Abductor Virgin’s trap in the Academy of Raya Lucaria (a shortcut but not ideal for early game players).
Finding Somber Smithing Stone 5 in Volcano Manor
Where to Begin
Once inside the manor, you’ll be able to explore the main hall and accept assassination missions from Tanith. However, much of the true area lies behind hidden doors and secret paths. To access them, strike the wall behind the small sitting room with the portrait this opens a concealed passage into the depths of Volcano Manor.
Key Locations to Search
Somber Smithing Stone [5] can be found in several areas within or connected to the Volcano Manor zone
- Guest Hall AreaFrom the Guest Hall Site of Grace, travel outside and down into the lava sections guarded by Man-Serpents. Carefully explore the rock ledges and platforms, as a Somber Smithing Stone [5] can be found on a corpse here.
- Prison Town ChurchThis corrupted, lava-surrounded building contains dangerous foes and hidden treasures. Look near the lava rivers for an isolated platform where a body holds the precious upgrade stone.
- Path to Godskin NobleOn the route leading to the boss chamber of the Godskin Noble, there are side paths and balconies where loot can be discovered. One of these dead ends hides a corpse with a Somber Smithing Stone [5].
Tips for Exploration
- Bring gear with high fire resistance lava and enemies deal significant fire damage.
- Use ranged attacks or spells to deal with serpent enemies from a distance.
- Don’t forget to check rooftops, balconies, and lava edges. Many items are hidden off the main route.
Alternative Methods to Get Somber Smithing Stone 5
Merchants and Bell Bearings
If you prefer to purchase rather than hunt, you’ll need to acquire theSomberstone Miner’s Bell Bearing [3]and offer it to the Twin Maiden Husks in Roundtable Hold. This will unlock Somber Smithing Stone [5] for purchase. However, this item is found later in the game and requires significant progress through regions like Crumbling Farum Azula.
Other Drop Locations
While Volcano Manor is a key spot, you can also find the stone in other mid- to late-game zones
- Altus Plateau
- Mountaintops of the Giants
- Nokron, Eternal City
Farming Tips
Unlike regular smithing stones, Somber Smithing Stones aren’t easily farmed. The best approach is to fully explore each region and keep an eye out for glowing loot near dangerous areas. Some late-game enemies and chests may drop them as well.
Using Somber Smithing Stone 5
Where to Upgrade
VisitSmithing Master Hewgat the Roundtable Hold to upgrade your unique weapon. Ensure that the weapon is already upgraded to +4 before using the level 5 stone. Once you apply it, your weapon will gain an immediate boost in damage and possibly new scaling effects depending on the weapon type.
Recommended Weapons to Upgrade
There are dozens of unique weapons inElden Ringthat benefit from early investment. Some fan favorites that players often enhance with Somber Smithing Stone [5] include
- Moonveil (Intelligence/Dexterity scaling katana)
- Dark Moon Greatsword
- Blasphemous Blade
- Wing of Astel
Final Notes on Volcano Manor
More Than Just Stones
Volcano Manor is more than just a farm spot. Its narrative depth, unique questlines, and rare loot make it one of the most compelling optional areas in the game. While you’re searching for the Somber Smithing Stone [5], take time to engage with the story and characters it adds meaningful context to your journey as a Tarnished.
Be Prepared for Battle
The enemies in this region hit hard, and the layout of the manor with its hidden walls and lava hazards can easily lead to untimely deaths. Make sure you’re appropriately leveled, have good healing options, and carry status resistance gear.
Acquiring theSomber Smithing Stone 5inElden Ringis a valuable step in enhancing your favorite unique weapons and making mid-game combat significantly easier. TheVolcano Manorserves as one of the key locations where this rare item can be found, though it requires thorough exploration, strategic combat, and a keen eye for hidden paths. By carefully navigating the fiery halls of the manor, you’ll not only obtain powerful upgrade materials but also immerse yourself in one of the game’s most richly detailed zones. Don’t overlook the potential that lies within the magma-covered cliffs and serpent-infested halls you might just find the edge you need to conquer the Lands Between.