mineral

Tonsil Stone (Tonsillolith)

Calcium phosphate / Calcium carbonate biomineral

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2-3 on Mohs scale; Color: yellowish-white, cream, or light brown; Luster: dull to earthy; Structure: irregular microcrystalline biomineral aggregate; Odor: foul/pungent due to sulfur compounds.

Hardness: 2-3 on Mohs scale
Color: yellowish-white, cream, or light brown
Luster: dull to earthy

Identified July 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the accumulation and calcification of cellular debris, bacteria, mucus, and food particles within the crypts of the palatine tonsils.

Uses & applications

No commercial or lapidary purpose; primarily of biological and medical interest.

Geological facts

Tonsilloliths are bio-aggregates composed primarily of calcium salts such as hydroxyapatite or calcium carbonate mixed with organic material. They are very common and often host anaerobic bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its small size, off-white to yellowish color, soft to semi-hard texture, and distinctive odor when crushed. Found within tonsillar crypts in humans.