Rock Identifier
Fossil tooth, possibly shark tooth (Indeterminate fossilized vertebrate tooth; likely a shark tooth (possibly *Carcharhinus* or related genus)) — fossil
fossil

Fossil tooth, possibly shark tooth

Indeterminate fossilized vertebrate tooth; likely a shark tooth (possibly *Carcharhinus* or related genus)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, dark gray-brown, glossy triangular tooth with a pointed crown and apparent root; enamel-like luster contrasts with the duller base. Fossil teeth commonly have Mohs hardness around 5–7, though exact properties depend on mineral replacement.

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Physical properties

Small, dark gray-brown, glossy triangular tooth with a pointed crown and apparent root; enamel-like luster contrasts with the duller base. Fossil teeth commonly have Mohs hardness around 5–7, though exact properties depend on mineral replacement.

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when a tooth was buried in marine sediment and gradually mineralized during diagenesis; age cannot be determined from the image alone. Shark teeth are commonly preserved in Cenozoic marine deposits, especially Miocene–Pliocene sediments.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collectible and educational fossil; high-quality examples are used in jewelry and display, not construction or industry.

Geological facts

The shape strongly suggests a fossil tooth, but scale, root structure, serrations, and locality are needed for reliable species identification.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in coastal exposures, river gravels, quarries, and marine sediment beds. Test carefully for a distinct enamel crown, root lobes, serrations, and natural mineralization; avoid destructive tests.