fossil

Fossil Shark Tooth

Selachii fossil

Hardness varies depending on mineralization (typically Mohs 5-7); Color ranges from grey, tan, brown to black; Luster can be dull to vitreous; Composed primarily of calcium phosphate (fluorapatite) through the process of permineralization.

Identified August 1, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed over millions of years when shark teeth were buried in marine sediment, where minerals gradually replaced the original organic material.

Uses & applications

Used in paleontology, education, jewelry, and fossil collecting.

Geological facts

Sharks lose thousands of teeth in their lifetime, making their teeth some of the most common vertebrate fossils found worldwide.

Field identification & locations

Frequently found in marine sedimentary deposits, riverbeds, and coastal erosion areas. Look for the distinct triangular or root-like shape.

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Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix

Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

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Sedimentary Outcrop (Sandstone/Shale)

Sedimentary bedrock formation (variable composition)

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Chert with Fossil Brachiopod

Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion

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Fossilized Crinoid Stem in Limestone

Crinoidea (Class) in Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) matrix

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Fossiliferous Limestone

Limestone with embedded fossil cross-section

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Fossiliferous Limestone with Crinoid stems

Limestone (CaCO3) containing Crinoidea fossils

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