sedimentary

Fossil Shark Tooth

Selachimorpha (Chondrichthyes dental fossil)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5 (Mohs); Color: Black, dark gray, or brown due to permineralization; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Enameloid crown with a distinct root; Density: High for its size.

Hardness: 5 (Mohs)
Color: Black, dark gray, or brown due to permineralization
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified June 15, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5 (Mohs); Color: Black, dark gray, or brown due to permineralization; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Enameloid crown with a distinct root; Density: High for its size.

Formation & geological history

Formed through permineralization over millions of years (Cenozoic or Mesozoic eras), where minerals like phosphate or silica replace the organic tooth material in seafloor sediment.

Uses & applications

Educational specimens, jewelry (necklaces), and collector items.

Geological facts

Sharks lose thousands of teeth in their lifetime; the dark color of this specimen indicates it has been fossilized for at least 10,000 to millions of years, unlike white modern teeth.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its triangular shape, serrated or smooth edges, and a distinct hard root. Commonly found on beaches known for fossil deposits or in phosphate mines.