fossil
Sand Tiger Shark Tooth Fossil
Carcharias taurus (fossilized tooth)
Hardness: 5 (hydroxyapatite); Color: Creamy white to beige; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Shape: Long, slender, needle-like crown with a pointed tip; Structure: Dense enameloid covering.
- Hardness
- 5 (hydroxyapatite)
- Color
- Creamy white to beige
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5 (hydroxyapatite); Color: Creamy white to beige; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Shape: Long, slender, needle-like crown with a pointed tip; Structure: Dense enameloid covering.
Formation & geological history
Formed via permineralization where organic tooth material is replaced by minerals over millions of years. This specimen likely dates from the Eocene to Miocene epochs (approx. 5-50 million years ago) in marine sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Educational purposes, paleontological study, and collector display; sometimes used in wire-wrapped jewelry.
Geological facts
Sand tiger sharks are known as 'ragged-tooth sharks' because their long, narrow teeth protrude from their mouths even when closed. They constantly shed and replace their teeth throughout their lives.
Field identification & locations
Commonly found by beachcombing or sifting through river gravel in coastal regions like the Atlantic coast of the USA (e.g., Florida, Maryland) or North Africa. Identify by the narrow, slightly curved blade and characteristic root base.
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