fossil

Megalodon Shark Tooth

Otodus megalodon

Hardness varies around 5 on the Mohs scale due to fossilization (mineralization into apatite/silica), color ranges from black, grey, brown to blue depending on the sediments, vitreous to dull luster, solid triangular tooth structure with a visible bourlette and serrated edges.

Identified August 6, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the process of permineralization where the original organic material of the shark's tooth was gradually replaced by minerals from surrounding marine sediments over millions of years, typically dating from the Miocene to Pliocene epochs (approx. 23 to 3.6 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Prized by fossil collectors, used in educational displays, and sometimes crafted into jewelry or decorative display pieces.

Geological facts

Otodus megalodon was the largest predatory shark to ever live, reaching lengths of up to 50-60 feet. Their teeth are relatively common fossils because a single shark could shed thousands of teeth in its lifetime.

Field identification & locations

Found commonly in marine sedimentary deposits, river beds, and coastal areas (such as the Southeastern United States, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and regions of the Mediterranean and Peru). Look for triangular shapes, dark mineralized coloration, and serrated margins.