fossil

Fossilized Shark Tooth

Elasmobranchii (tooth fossil, composed mainly of Bioapatite / Calcium Phosphate)

Hardness: ~5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black, dark gray, or brown with a lighter root; Luster: Vitreous to shiny enameloid surface; Structure: Blade-shaped crown with a distinct root attachment.

Hardness: ~5 on Mohs scale
Color: Black, dark gray, or brown with a lighter root
Luster: Vitreous to shiny enameloid surface

Identified July 26, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness: ~5 on Mohs scale; Color: Black, dark gray, or brown with a lighter root; Luster: Vitreous to shiny enameloid surface; Structure: Blade-shaped crown with a distinct root attachment.

Formation & geological history

Formed through permineralization over millions of years when shed shark teeth were buried in marine sediment. Water rich in minerals impregnated the porous bone root and enamelled crown, turning it into stone. Ages typically range from Eocene to Miocene Epochs (5 to 50+ million years old).

Uses & applications

Popular for educational collections, jewelry (pendants), and private fossil collecting.

Geological facts

Sharks lose thousands of teeth in their lifetime as new rows constantly move forward to replace old ones. The dark black or brown color of fossil shark teeth is due to absorption of surrounding soil minerals like iron, phosphate, and manganese during fossilization.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive triangular or pointed crown shape, glossy enameloid coating, and dark mineralization. Commonly found along coastal beaches, stream beds, and limestone quarries, especially in Florida, the Carolinas, and Morocco.

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