fossil

Fossil shark tooth in sediment

Likely fossilized shark tooth, possibly *Carcharhinus* or *Otodus*; exact identification requires the tooth’s full morphology and locality

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

The central object appears to be a cream-colored, mineralized shark tooth surrounded by loose sediment and shell fragments. Fossil teeth are commonly apatite (calcium phosphate), typically Mohs 5, with glossy enamel, a darker root, and preserved serrations; this specimen appears worn or partially obscured.

Identified August 27, 2026More fossil →

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At a glance

Common name: Fossil shark tooth in sediment
Scientific name: Likely fossilized shark tooth, possibly *Carcharhinus* or *Otodus*; exact identification requires the tooth’s full morphology and locality
Category: fossil
Identified: August 27, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $5–$30 for a common incomplete or matrix-mounted tooth; $50–$300+ for large, sharp, well-preserved, confidently identified specimens.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Shark teeth were shed continuously, buried in marine sediments, and mineralized during diagenesis, commonly during the Miocene–Pliocene (about 23–2.6 million years ago), though age depends on provenance. The surrounding material appears sedimentary beach or marine matrix.

Uses & applications

Primarily a fossil-collecting and educational specimen; quality teeth are displayed, studied, or made into jewelry. They have no significant industrial use.

Geological facts

Sharks replace thousands of teeth over their lifetimes, making teeth among the most abundant vertebrate fossils. The visible broad triangular crown suggests a requiem-type shark, but image quality prevents a confident species assignment.

Field identification & locations

Check for enamel gloss, a distinct root, bilateral symmetry, and serrations; compare tooth shape with locality-specific fossils. Common sources include Florida, Morocco, North Carolina, and Indonesia.