Stonesword Keys are essential consumable items in Elden Ring that unlock sealed fog doors guarded by imp statues throughout The Lands Between. While many keys can be scavenged from hidden corpses and chest locations, buying them directly from merchants is often the fastest way to bolster your inventory. Knowing which vendors stock these key items allows players to quickly access rare weapons, talismans, and secret dungeon areas.
Early Game Merchants in Limgrave and Weeping Peninsula
Players starting their journey can acquire their first purchasable keys in the southern regions. The Nomadic Merchant located near the Castle Morne Rampart site of grace in the Weeping Peninsula sells a key for 2,000 runes. Additionally, the Isolated Merchant housed in the Isolated Merchant's Shack on the western coast of the peninsula offers three keys for 2,000 runes each.
Upon reaching the central hub of Roundtable Hold, players can visit the Twin Maiden Husks. This vendor offers three keys priced at 4,000 runes apiece. Purchasing these keys early gives players a reliable reserve for early-game subterranean dungeons.
Mid Game Vendors in Liurnia and Caelid
As you progress into Liurnia of the Lakes, more vendor options become available. The Isolated Merchant stationed near the Main Academy Gate sells three keys for 3,000 runes each. This makes it convenient to restock before exploring the Raya Lucaria Academy area.
In the dangerous region of Caelid, players can find a Nomadic Merchant along the main southern road. This merchant carries a key available for 4,000 runes. Securing keys in these areas ensures smooth progression through sealed catacombs and hidden treasure rooms.
Late Game Key Locations in Altus and Siofra
Reaching Altus Plateau and Mt. Gelmir opens up higher-tier merchants. The Nomadic Merchant near the Grand Lift of Dectus broken bridge sells three keys for 4,000 runes each. Another Nomadic Merchant in Mt. Gelmir stocks a key for 5,000 runes.
For players exploring underground zones, the Imprisoned Merchant found in the Mohgwyn Dynasty region near Siofra River stocks five keys for 5,000 runes each. Furthermore, the Hermit Merchant in the Mountaintops of the Giants offers three additional keys at 5,000 runes apiece.
Tips for Managing Runes and Key Purchases
Because merchant inventories are limited, buying out a vendor's stock completely removes that source for the rest of your playthrough. Prioritize buying cheaper keys early on from Limgrave vendors before spending higher amounts at late-game merchants. Managing your rune budget effectively ensures you can purchase these crucial items whenever you encounter a new sealed imp statue.
