fossil

Fossilized Tooth

Vertebrate Fossilized Tooth (Mineralized Biogenic Material)

Hardness varies around 5 to 7 on the Mohs scale depending on the replacing minerals; Color ranges from dark brown, grey, to black; Luster is dull to vitreous; Crystal structure is microcrystalline quartz or apatite replacement.

Identified August 5, 2026More fossil →

Explore Fossilized Tooth in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the process of permineralization or replacement where organic material is slowly replaced by minerals like silica or calcium phosphate over millions of years.

Uses & applications

Educational purposes, scientific research, and fossil collecting.

Geological facts

Fossilized teeth are among the most common vertebrate fossils found because enamel and dentin resist decay much better than soft tissues.

Field identification & locations

Found in sedimentary rock layers, riverbeds, and coastal cliffs worldwide. Collectors often look for distinct shapes resembling claws or teeth, sometimes testing with a microscope or UV light.

Other fossil specimens

See all

Crinoid Stem Fossil in Matrix

Phylum Echinodermata, Class Crinoidea

fossil

Sedimentary Outcrop (Sandstone/Shale)

Sedimentary bedrock formation (variable composition)

sedimentary

Chert with Fossil Brachiopod

Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion

sedimentary

Crinoid Stem Fossils (Indian Beads / St. Cuthbert's Beads)

Crinoid columnal ossicles (phylum Echinodermata)

fossil

Fossilized Crinoid Stem in Limestone

Crinoidea (Class) in Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) matrix

fossil

Fossiliferous Limestone

Limestone with embedded fossil cross-section

sedimentary