sedimentary
Fossilized Shark Tooth
Carcharocles sp. (likely Lemon or Sand Tiger)
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan to creamy white; Luster: Enamelous/vitreous; Structure: Triangular blade with a distinct root.
- Hardness
- 5 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Tan to creamy white
- Luster
- Enamelous/vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Tan to creamy white; Luster: Enamelous/vitreous; Structure: Triangular blade with a distinct root.
Formation & geological history
Formed through permineralization where minerals replace organic bone/dentin over millions of years. This specimen likely dates from the Miocene to Pliocene epochs (5-23 million years ago).
Uses & applications
Commonly used for educational displays, fossil collecting, and jewelry such as necklaces.
Geological facts
Sharks can lose tens of thousands of teeth in a lifetime. Unlike bone, shark teeth fossilize easily because of their high mineral content (apatite).
Field identification & locations
Identify by the sharp triangular blade, hard enamel coating, and distinct root structure. Frequently found in coastal sedimentary deposits or riverbeds.
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