fossil

Sand Tiger Shark Tooth

Carcharias taurus

Hardness: 5 (Mohs scale, fluorapatite/enamel), Color: Tan to brown or grey depending on mineral replacement, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal structure: Amorphous/permineralized organic matrix, Specific Gravity: 2.8 - 3.2

Identified August 1, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the process of permineralization where organic tooth material is gradually replaced by minerals (such as silica, calcium carbonates, or phosphates) over millions of years. Typically dates from the Miocene to Pliocene epochs (approximately 5 to 23 million years ago), though similar shark teeth can range from Cretaceous to recent geological periods.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in fossil collecting, educational displays, and as pendants or jewelry components.

Geological facts

Sharks lose thousands of teeth during their lifetimes, making shark teeth some of the most common vertebrate fossils found worldwide. The presence of side cusps on this specific specimen helps identify it as belonging to a Sand Tiger shark.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its slender, sharply pointed main cusp and distinct small lateral cusplets on the root. Commonly found in river gravel beds, coastal cliffs, and marine sedimentary deposits, particularly in regions like the southeastern United States (e.g., Florida, North Carolina) and parts of Europe.