fossil

Fossilized mammalian tooth

Mineralized dental tissue, chiefly hydroxyapatite [Ca₅(PO₄)₃(OH)]

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 5–6 Mohs; brown, cream, and dark gray coloration with a glossy-to-earthy luster. The layered enamel, dentine, and worn crown morphology are characteristic of a tooth rather than a conventional rock.

Identified September 12, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

A biological specimen later mineralized during burial as groundwater replaced or filled the original tissues, commonly with silica, calcite, or iron oxides. Its exact geological age and animal identity cannot be determined confidently from this image alone.

Uses & applications

Used for paleontological study, education, and fossil collecting; complete, identifiable teeth may have decorative value. It is not typically used in construction or jewelry.

Geological facts

The dark outer band likely represents heavily mineralized enamel, while the lighter interior is dentine or root material. The broad, worn surface may indicate a herbivorous mammal tooth, but species-level identification requires measurements and locality data.

Field identification & locations

Look for enamel-to-dentine layering, a root or pulp cavity, bilateral tooth symmetry, and wear facets; these distinguish it from patterned stone. Common fossil teeth occur in sedimentary deposits worldwide, especially river, cave, and badland sediments.