fossil

Fossilized Shark Tooth

Elasmobranchii (various species, possibly Carcharias or Odontaspis)

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, or white (depending on mineral replacement); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Enameloid crown with a bifurcated root base.

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale
Color: Cream, tan, or white (depending on mineral replacement)
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified July 18, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, tan, or white (depending on mineral replacement); Luster: Vitreous to dull; Structure: Enameloid crown with a bifurcated root base.

Formation & geological history

Formed through permineralization where hydroxyapatite in the tooth is replaced or enriched by minerals from surrounding marine sediments. Usually dates from the Cretaceous to Neogene periods.

Uses & applications

Scientific study (paleontology), educational purposes, and very popular for use in jewelry (pendants) and private fossil collecting.

Geological facts

Sharks can lose tens of thousands of teeth in a lifetime. Unlike bone, shark skeletons are cartilage and rarely fossilize, making their hard teeth the primary record of their existence.

Field identification & locations

Identified by their sharp triangular or needle-like shape, serrated or smooth edges, and characteristic root. Often found by sifting through beach sand or creek beds in fossiliferous regions.

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