fossil
Mosasaur Tooth
Mosasauridae (likely Prognathodon or Mosasaurus species)
Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale), Color: Golden-brown to yellow (often permineralized), Luster: Vitreous/shiny enamel, Structure: Conical with slight curvature or carinae (ridges), cleavage: none
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale), Color: Golden-brown to yellow (often permineralized), Luster: Vitreous/shiny enamel, Structure: Conical with slight curvature or carinae (ridges), cleavage: none
Formation & geological history
Formed through permineralization of aquatic reptile teeth in marine sedimentary basins during the Late Cretaceous period (approx. 66-70 million years ago).
Uses & applications
Educational displays, private fossil collections, and occasionally used in wire-wrapped jewelry or pendants.
Geological facts
Mosasaurs were apex marine predators, not dinosaurs. They had a second set of teeth in the roof of their mouths to help swallow prey whole. This specimen appears to be a typical 'rootless' crown commonly found in phosphate mines.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its conical shape, enamel texture, and the presence of vertical ridges or faceted sides. Commonly found in the Khouribga phosphate beds of Morocco.
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