Fossil Shark Tooth Fragment
cf. Carcharodon carcharias or Otodus megalodon (worn fragment) • Body fossil (Vertebrate tooth); typically permineralized phosphate
Geological Period
Neogene (Miocene to Pliocene)
Estimated Age
5 to 23 million years
Preservation Type
Permineralized and phosphated; significant mechanical abrasion from fluvial or marine transport (water-worn)
Condition Assessment
Poor to Fair; highly eroded, lack of serrations, missing root structures, and rounded edges indicate high-energy environmental transport.
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum: Chordata, Class: Chondrichthyes, Order: Lamniformes, Family: Otodontidae (or similar Lamnid/Carcharhinid family)
Morphological Description
Elongated, sub-triangular shape showing significant water-rolling and abrasion. One surface appears flatter (lingual side) while the other is slightly more convex. Traces of a darker, lustrous enameloid are present, though heavily worn, and the osteodentine core is visible where the surface is pitted.
Rock Matrix
None attached; specimen is isolated. Likely originated from a marine lag deposit containing phosphate nodules and quartz sand.
Formation & Location
Commonly found in the Peace River Formation (Florida, USA) or similar marine deposits in the Atlantic Coastal Plain.
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 20-30mm in length. This is a small fragment or a complete tooth from a juvenile/smaller species, significantly reduced by erosion.
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
1 to 5 USD
Auction Estimate
N/A (Typically sold in bulk bags or found as beach 'treasures')
Rarity Assessment
Common; extremely abundant in specific geological lag deposits and fossil-bearing beaches.
Scientific Significance
Limited scientific value due to loss of diagnostic anatomical features, but useful for paleo-environmental reconstruction of high-energy marine lag deposits.
Preparation Recommendations
No preparation required. Store in a dry environment to prevent salt crystallization if found near the ocean. Can be polished if used for jewelry.
Notable Features
Heavy 'river-worn' or 'ocean-polished' patina and a deep black/mahogany coloration resulting from phosphate replacement during fossilization.