fossil

Shark Tooth Fossil

Otodus obliquus (or similar prehistoric lamniform shark tooth)

Hardness: 5 on the Mohs scale (due to mineral replacement by apatite/phosphate minerals); Color: Tan, brown, or golden-brown; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline apatite/calcium phosphate replacing original biological structure

Color: Tan, brown, or golden-brown
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified August 1, 2026More fossil →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the process of permineralization or fossilization where minerals replace the original organic material of the shark's tooth over millions of years, typically dating from the Paleocene to Eocene epochs (approx. 40 to 60 million years ago)

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a collector's item, in educational displays, and sometimes crafted into jewelry such as pendants

Geological facts

Shark teeth are the most common type of shark fossil because a single shark can shed tens of thousands of teeth in its lifetime. As cartilage rarely fossilizes, the teeth are usually the only remnants left behind

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by their triangular shape, serrated edges (in many species), and distinct root structure. Commonly found in marine sedimentary deposits, riverbeds, and coastal erosion areas around the world

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Sedimentary bedrock formation (variable composition)

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Chert with Fossil Brachiopod

Microcrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with Calcitic Brachiopod inclusion

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Fossilized Crinoid Stem in Limestone

Crinoidea (Class) in Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) matrix

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Fossiliferous Limestone

Limestone with embedded fossil cross-section

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Fossiliferous Limestone with Crinoid stems

Limestone (CaCO3) containing Crinoidea fossils

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