Rock Identifier
Fossil Shark Tooth (Lamniform (Mackerel Shark) fossil tooth, likely Otodus or Cretalamna) — fossil
fossil

Fossil Shark Tooth

Lamniform (Mackerel Shark) fossil tooth, likely Otodus or Cretalamna

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness (Mohs scale): 5.0; Color: Cream, tan, or light grey; Luster: Matte to waxy enamel; Shape: Triangular with a robust phosphate root; Composition: Calcium phosphate (Bio-apatite).

Color
Cream, tan, or light grey
Luster
Matte to waxy enamel
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Physical properties

Hardness (Mohs scale): 5.0; Color: Cream, tan, or light grey; Luster: Matte to waxy enamel; Shape: Triangular with a robust phosphate root; Composition: Calcium phosphate (Bio-apatite).

Formation & geological history

Formed through the process of permineralization where minerals replace the organic dental tissue. Likely from the Cretaceous or Paleogene period (approx. 50-100 million years ago) in a marine environment.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for educational collections, jewelry (as pendants), and as popular items for amateur fossil hunters.

Geological facts

Shark teeth are the most common shark fossils because their skeletons are made of cartilage, which rarely fossilizes, while teeth are made of hard dentin and enamel. A single shark can lose thousands of teeth in its lifetime.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for a triangular shape with a glossy enamel surface and a distinct, more porous root structure. Commonly found in coastal sedimentary deposits or riverbeds where ancient seas once existed.

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