Anthracite Coal

Deep black color, sub-metallic to vitreous (glassy) luster, conchoidal fracture, Mohs hardness 2.5-3.0, high carbon content (86-97%), low moisture/volatiles.

Formed under extreme pressure and heat during peak mountain-building processes, usually dating from the Carboniferous Period (approx. 300 million years ago) through the metamorphism of sedimentary bituminous coal.

Primarily used as a clean-burning fuel for residential heating and industrial blacksmithing/metallurgy; also used in water filtration systems.

Anthracite is the highest grade of coal and contains the most energy by weight. Unlike other coals, it is relatively clean to the touch and burns with a short blue flame and very little smoke.

Identified in the field by its glossy surface and the fact that it does not leave black soot on your hands like lower-ranked coals. Ethiopia has diverse geology, and while large-scale coal production is emerging in regions like Oromia and Benishangul-Gumuz, specific Carboniferous deposits are less common than lignite.