fossil

Fossil shark tooth, likely megalodon

Otodus megalodon (formerly Carcharocles megalodon), fossilized tooth

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Large triangular tooth with serrated edges, dark brown mineralized enamel, and a lighter gray-brown root; enamel hardness is roughly 5–6 Mohs, with glossy to dull luster. The vertical striations and broad root are characteristic of a fossil shark tooth.

Identified September 12, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when a shark tooth was rapidly buried in marine sediment and its tissues mineralized, commonly during the Miocene–Pliocene (about 23–2.6 million years ago). The apparent size and robust triangular crown are consistent with megalodon, though exact identification requires scale and close examination of serrations.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector’s fossil, educational specimen, and display piece; it has no practical industrial use. Larger, complete teeth are popular in natural-history collections and jewelry.

Geological facts

Megalodon was an enormous extinct shark, potentially 15–20 meters long; its teeth are among the most commonly traded vertebrate fossils. Serrations helped it cut through prey.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in marine deposits of Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland, Morocco, and Indonesia. Check for regular fine serrations, a complete enamel crown, and authentic mineralized color; modern replicas are often resin or ceramic.