sedimentary
Fossilized Shark Tooth
Carcharodon carcharias (fossilized) / Hydroxyapatite permineralized with silica or iron
Hardness: 5 Mohs; Color: Tan to cream (likely modern or lightly mineralized); Luster: Vitreous/shiny (enamel); Sharp triangular shape with a distinct root and crown.
- Hardness
- 5 Mohs
- Color
- Tan to cream (likely modern or lightly mineralized)
- Luster
- Vitreous/shiny (enamel)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 Mohs; Color: Tan to cream (likely modern or lightly mineralized); Luster: Vitreous/shiny (enamel); Sharp triangular shape with a distinct root and crown.
Formation & geological history
Formed via permineralization where minerals from surrounding sediment replace the organic structure of the tooth over thousands to millions of years. Common in marine sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Primarily for educational collections, jewelry (as pendants), and as a hobbyist collectible.
Geological facts
Sharks lose thousands of teeth throughout their lives, making them some of the most common fossils found in the world. This specific one appears to be a smaller, modern or near-modern specimen due to its light color.
Field identification & locations
Identify by looking for a hard, enamelled triangular crown and a porous, wider root. Commonly found on beaches or in river beds where ancient marine deposits are eroding.
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