sedimentary
Fossilized Shark Tooth
Carcharocles sp. or similar (Fossilized Fluorapatite)
Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale); Color: Black or dark grey due to permineralization; Luster: Vitreous to sub-metallic; Structure: Biological enameloid replaced by minerals; Cleavage: None
- Hardness
- 5 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Black or dark grey due to permineralization
- Luster
- Vitreous to sub-metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale); Color: Black or dark grey due to permineralization; Luster: Vitreous to sub-metallic; Structure: Biological enameloid replaced by minerals; Cleavage: None
Formation & geological history
Formed through permineralization where minerals from surrounding sediment replace biological tissue over millions of years, typically from the Eocene or Miocene epochs.
Uses & applications
Educational collections, biological research, and jewelry (pendants).
Geological facts
Shark teeth are the most common shark fossils because sharks lose thousands of teeth over their lifetime and the high mineral content in enamel favors fossilization.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the triangular shape and sharp edges. Commonly found on beaches known for fossil deposits or in sedimentary river beds. Collectors look for unbroken tips and distinct root structures.
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