How to Find a Shark Tooth Fossil
A shark tooth fossil is a fossilized tooth of a shark. A fossil is any preserved remains, impression, or trace of an organism from the past. Shark teeth are some of the most commonly found fossils. This is because sharks constantly lose and regrow their teeth throughout their lifetime and they have been around for a very long time! Shark teeth are most commonly found in areas with high concentrations of marine life.
1. Check the Beach after a Storm
One of the best times to look for shark teeth is after a storm when the waves have brought them up from the depths of the ocean. Check your local beach for any exposed fossils. Beaches are a great place to look for shark teeth because they are constantly being eroded by the waves. This erosion exposes sedimentary layers that may contain fossils. It is important to note that not all beaches will have shark teeth fossils. Beaches that do have shark teeth fossils will usually be located near areas with high concentrations of marine life.
2. Visit a Museum
Museums typically have a wide variety of fossils on display, including shark teeth. Not only will this help with identifying shark teeth you want to find, this is a great way to see what types of shark teeth and shark species are out there in your local area and get an idea of where to look for them. Many museums also have gift shops where you can purchase replicas or actual fossils.
3. Search Online
If you’re not having any luck finding shark teeth locally, you can always search for them online. There are many websites that sell fossils, including shark and megalodon teeth. Make sure you do your research before purchasing anything online, as there are many fake fossils being sold as well.
4. Join a Fossil Club or Dig Site
There are many clubs and dig sites dedicated to finding and collecting fossils. This is a great way to meet like-minded people and learn about different types of fossils. Plus, it’s usually more fun to search for fossils with others!
Finding The Fossil
Once you’ve found an area with potential, it’s time to start looking for shark teeth. The best way to do this is to sift through the sediment using a small mesh screen. This will help to filter out any small rocks or debris and make it easier to spot any fossil shark teeth.
If you don’t have a mesh screen, don’t worry! You can also look for shark teeth by gently breaking open rocks with a hammer. Be careful not to break the rocks into too small of pieces, as this will make it more difficult to find the fossils.
Finding Your Own Fossil
There are many ways to find a shark tooth fossil, but these tried and true methods are some of the most effective. With a little patience and persistence, you’re sure to find the perfect fossil for your home or collection! As always, if you’re looking to purchase fossilized shark teeth, we have an extensive collection here at The Fossil Exchange, including megalodon teeth!
