fossil

Fossil shark tooth

Likely fossilized shark tooth, possibly Carcharhinus or a related requiem shark

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Triangular, gray-brown tooth with a glossy enamel crown and darker fossilized base; hardness about 5–6 for enamel, with possible fine serrations that are difficult to resolve in the image. Shark teeth consist chiefly of calcium-phosphate apatite, commonly replaced or stained during fossilization.

Identified September 18, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

A marine fossil formed when a shed tooth was buried in sediment and mineralized over thousands to millions of years; exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph. Fossil shark teeth range from Cretaceous to Recent deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collectible, educational specimen, or jewelry component; it has no significant industrial or construction use.

Geological facts

Sharks continuously replace teeth, so individual animals shed thousands during their lifetimes. Gray coloration commonly reflects mineral staining from sedimentary burial.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the enamel crown, distinct root, bilateral shape, and possible serrated edges; common sources include coastal fossil beds and marine sediments in Florida, the Carolinas, Morocco, and Indonesia. Avoid testing or cleaning with acids, which can damage the specimen.