Rock Identifier
Polished fossil tooth, likely shark tooth (Fossilized selachian tooth; possibly Otodus or a related lamniform shark) — fossil
fossil

Polished fossil tooth, likely shark tooth

Fossilized selachian tooth; possibly Otodus or a related lamniform shark

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small, triangular beige-brown specimen with a pointed tip, dark cavities, and a glossy/worn surface. Fossil tooth enamel is typically Mohs ~5–6, while the infilled root/crown matrix is softer; composition is apatite (calcium phosphate) with mineral replacement.

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Physical properties

Small, triangular beige-brown specimen with a pointed tip, dark cavities, and a glossy/worn surface. Fossil tooth enamel is typically Mohs ~5–6, while the infilled root/crown matrix is softer; composition is apatite (calcium phosphate) with mineral replacement.

Formation & geological history

Likely formed when a shark tooth was buried in marine sediment and mineralized during diagenesis, commonly over millions of years in Cenozoic deposits. Exact age and species require examination of serrations, root shape, and provenance.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collectible and educational fossil; similar teeth are used in jewelry and display pieces, not construction.

Geological facts

The dark holes may be natural cavities, matrix loss, or damage; the image is insufficient for confident species identification.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its enamel-like sheen, hard triangular crown, and fossilized root; test cautiously and avoid destructive scratching. Common sources include Florida, Morocco, North Carolina, and other former marine sediments.

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