Anthracite Crystal – Carboniferous Coal Specimen – South Wales UK – Certificate of Authenticity

Description

This listing features a 100% genuine Anthracite Crystal from the Carboniferous coal seams of South Wales, UK. You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photo, carefully chosen for its luster, shape, and compact mass. A 1cm scale cube is included in the image for accurate sizing.

Anthracite is the highest-grade coal, formed through intense metamorphism and known for its high carbon content, hardness, and bright, metallic lustre. These specimens are fossilised organic matter, originating from the dense forests of the Carboniferous period approximately 300 million years ago.

All of our Crystals are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Key Features:

• Material: Anthracite (High-grade metamorphic coal)
• Composition: Primarily carbon (C), with trace impurities
• Lustre: Bright, sub-metallic to vitreous
• Hardness: 2.75–3.0 Mohs
• Fracture: Conchoidal to irregular
• Colour: Jet black with silvery sheen
• Crystal System: Amorphous (non-crystalline)

Geological Context:

• Location: South Wales Coalfield, UK
• Geological Stage: Carboniferous Period (~359–299 million years ago)
• Depositional Environment: Formed from dense peat swamps in tropical deltaic and coastal floodplain environments; later subjected to tectonic pressure and heat
• Morphology Features: Conchoidal fractures, compact dense layers, bright sheen
• Zone / Biozone: Westphalian stage of the Upper Carboniferous (commonly associated)
• Notable: South Wales was a historically significant coal mining region during the Industrial Revolution, and anthracite from this area is among the hardest and purest in the world

Taxonomic Notes:

• Order: Not applicable (organic sedimentary rock)
• Family / Super Family: Not applicable
• Formally Described By: Long known and mined historically; scientific understanding of anthracite formation advanced in the 19th century

Whether you are a collector of rare geological specimens or appreciate the historical and industrial significance of anthracite, this specimen from South Wales makes a fascinating addition to any collection.

You will receive the actual specimen shown in the photo.

Disclaimer: All of our crystals and minerals are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. We do not use stock photos — every listing shows the exact item you will receive.