Rock Identifier
Fossil Shark Tooth (Selachii (fossilized dentition)) — fossil
fossil

Fossil Shark Tooth

Selachii (fossilized dentition)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness varies from 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale depending on mineralization, color ranges from tan, brown, black, to grey, luster is vitreous to dull, crystal structure is microcrystalline apatite (calcium phosphate)

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Physical properties

Hardness varies from 3 to 5 on the Mohs scale depending on mineralization, color ranges from tan, brown, black, to grey, luster is vitreous to dull, crystal structure is microcrystalline apatite (calcium phosphate)

Formation & geological history

Formed through the process of permineralization where organic tooth material is replaced by minerals from surrounding sediments over millions of years, commonly dating from the Cretaceous to Neogene periods

Uses & applications

Collected by fossil enthusiasts, used in educational displays, and crafted into jewelry

Geological facts

Sharks lose thousands of teeth in their lifetimes, making their teeth one of the most common types of marine fossils found globally

Field identification & locations

Found in sedimentary rock layers, riverbeds, and coastal cliffs; identified by their distinct triangular or conical shape and smooth enameloid coating

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Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix (Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea) — fossil

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Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

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Fossiliferous limestone (likely a crinoidal or shell-fragment limestone) (Bioclastic limestone, composed chiefly of calcite (CaCO₃)) — sedimentary

Fossiliferous limestone (likely a crinoidal or shell-fragment limestone)

Bioclastic limestone, composed chiefly of calcite (CaCO₃)

sedimentary
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Rounded sedimentary pebble

Likely micritic limestone or calcareous sandstone

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Chert with Fossil Brachiopod

Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion

sedimentary