sedimentary

Fossilized Shark Tooth

Otodus sp. (approximate genus) / Hydroxyapatite fossil

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale); Color: tan to creamy yellow; Luster: vitreo-resinous; Structure: triangular blade with a root; Cleavage: none

Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale)
Color: tan to creamy yellow
Luster: vitreo-resinous

Identified June 25, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale); Color: tan to creamy yellow; Luster: vitreo-resinous; Structure: triangular blade with a root; Cleavage: none

Formation & geological history

Formed through the process of permineralization where organic tooth matter is replaced by minerals in marine sediments; typically Cretaceous to Eocene era (approx. 40-70 million years old).

Uses & applications

Used primarily for museum displays, educational collections, jewelry (pendants), and hobbyist fossil collecting.

Geological facts

Sharks can lose tens of thousands of teeth in a lifetime. Unlike bones, teeth fossilize easily because of their high mineral content. This specimen appears to be from a mackerel-type shark.

Field identification & locations

Identified by the distinct enameloid crown and ossified root. Commonly found in coastal deposits like the Atlantic Coastal Plain or phosphate mines. Field identification relies on the tapered shape and heavy mineralization compared to modern bone.