sedimentary
Anthracite Coal
Anthracite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 2.5-3, black to dark grey, sub-metallic vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, lacks visible crystal structure, specific gravity 1.3-1.8
Identified More sedimentary →
Explore Anthracite Coal in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Mohs hardness 2.5-3, black to dark grey, sub-metallic vitreous luster, conchoidal fracture, lacks visible crystal structure, specific gravity 1.3-1.8
Formation & geological history
High-grade metamorphic-like sedimentary rock formed from deeply buried plant matter under extreme pressure and heat over millions of years (Carboniferous era).
Uses & applications
Clean-burning fuel for heating, industrial filter media for water purification, and historically as a domestic fuel source.
Geological facts
Anthracite has the highest carbon content of all coal types (86% to 97%). It is often referred to as 'hard coal' and burns with a short blue flame and little smoke.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its shiny, almost metallic jet-black appearance and conchoidal (shell-like) fracture. Commonly found in the Appalachian region of Pennsylvania, USA.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Fossiliferous Sedimentary Rock
Sedimentary limestone with invertebrate fossil imprint
fossil
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Shale (or Mudstone/Siltstone)
Sedimentary Mudrock (SiO2, Al2O3 base with clay minerals)
sedimentary