fossil

Fossilized tooth, likely a shark tooth

Fossil vertebrate tooth; exact taxon uncertain, possibly Otodus/Carcharodon-type

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brown, rounded triangular tooth with a darker, mineralized outer surface and lighter porous interior; glossy to earthy luster, no visible crystal faces or cleavage. Fossil tooth enameloid is about Mohs 5–6, while the porous root is softer and more friable; apparent size is roughly 4–6 cm.

Identified September 19, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Originally formed as biological apatite in a shark’s jaw, then buried in marine sediment and progressively mineralized during diagenesis, commonly over millions of years (often Cenozoic). The broad shape and worn edges suggest substantial transport or abrasion.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collectible, educational specimen, or jewelry component; it has no major industrial use. Value depends strongly on species, completeness, color, preservation, and provenance.

Geological facts

The pale porous area is likely the root, while the darker smooth band may be preserved enamel. The image does not show a sharply defined crown or serrations, so species-level identification is unreliable.

Field identification & locations

Look for enamel-like gloss, a dense curved crown, porous root texture, bilateral symmetry, and sediment staining; compare with authenticated shark-tooth references. Common sources include marine sedimentary deposits in Morocco, the southeastern United States, and Indonesia.