fossil

Fossil Shark Tooth

Carcharhinidae or Lamniformes sp. (possibly Carcharodon or Otodus genus)

Hardness: 5 (Apatite/fossilized enamel), Color: Creamy white to pale yellow, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Structure: Triangular blade with a distinct root bridge, specific gravity approx 2.0-3.0 depending on permineralization

Identified July 6, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through permineralization where hydroxyapatite in the original biological tooth is replaced or reinforced by minerals from surrounding sediment. Typically dates from the Cretaceous to the Miocene-Pliocene epochs (approximately 5 to 100 million years old).

Uses & applications

Primarily for paleontological study, personal collections, educational tools, and unique jewelry items such as necklaces.

Geological facts

Sharks lose thousands of teeth throughout their lifetime, which is why teeth are the most common shark fossils found. The color of a fossil shark tooth is determined by the chemistry of the sediment it was buried in, not the original color of the tooth.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by looking for a triangular shape and a shiny enameloid coating among river gravel or tidal wash. Common locations include the Peace River in Florida, the beaches of the Carolinas, and the Cliffs of Maryland.

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