Spinosaurid Tooth in Matrix - Spinosaurus aegyptiacus (Cretaceous, Kem Kem Group, Morocco), 5-6 inches
Estimated value
$250 - $650Rarity
Average(4/10)Category
FossilsEra
Late Cretaceous (Cenomanian), c. 95-100 MaOrigin
🇲🇦 MoroccoAuthenticity
SPINOSAURID TOOTH IN MATRIX - SPINOSAURUS AEGYPTIACUS (CRETACEOUS, KEM KEM GROUP, MOROCCO), 5-6 INCHES: IDENTIFICATION
Large partial tooth of a Spinosaurid dinosaur, likely Spinosaurus aegyptiacus, embedded in a siltstone matrix typical of the Kem Kem beds. The specimen shows the characteristic conical, sub-cylindrical morphology and longitudinal fluting (fine vertical ridges) along the enamel surface. The tooth appears to have been fractured in several places and reassembled using a stabilizing adhesive, a common preparation technique for specimens from this locality. The matrix is a grey-toned sedimentary rock displaying typical fracture patterns from quarrying.
COLLECTOR NOTES
A 2014 study published in Science confirmed that Spinosaurus was the only known dinosaur to have adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle, possessing dense bones for buoyance control.
SCARCITY
Typical antique shop fare. Requires some searching but regularly available. This is where most genuine antiques fall.
Typical Characteristics
- Standard antique shop items
- Regularly available
- Moderate collector interest
Confidence Factors
- Highly prevalent 'composite' preparation in Kem Kem specimens where teeth are glued into non-native matrix
- Visible fill material in fracture gaps suggesting significant restoration
- The placement of the tooth on the matrix appears 'sculpted' for display rather than found in situ
PALEONTOLOGIST'S TAKE
Paleontology Specialist
Taxonomic identification is high due to the unique fluting, but the integrity of the 'matrix find' is questioned due to common Moroccan prep-floor practices.
KEY EVIDENCE
- 1Longitudinal fluting on enamel surface diagnostic of Spinosauridae
- 2Conical, slightly curved tooth morphology
- 3Matrix lithology consistent with Moroccan Kem Kem Group siltstones
- 4Visible stabilization adhesive in transverse fractures
UNCERTAINTIES
- •The contact point between the teeth and matrix shows signs of artificial mortar or 'matrix paste'
- •The specimen likely consists of two different partial teeth reassembled onto one display rock
WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY
- →Examine under UV light to identify the extent of composite 'gluing' and fill
- →Test the matrix density to ensure it is not artificial resin mixed with rock dust
- →Check for sanding marks around the base of the tooth
CONDITION & GRADE
Grading breakdown
Standard paleontological grading does not apply to isolated teeth, but market value is suppressed by the obvious reassembly and 'matrix-matching' preparation.
Condition
Multiple visible fracture lines with stabilizing fill are present throughout the main tooth shaft. The tip shows significant wear or truncation, and the attachment to the matrix appears to be a 'composite' preparation where a tooth is set into a separate base of rock to enhance display value.
Weight & feel
Estimated at 1.5 to 2.2 kg, the specimen feels dense due to the mineral replacement of the tooth and the solid host matrix.
SPECIMEN MARKET VALUE
Updated: May 11, 2026
Who buys this
Entry-level dinosaur enthusiasts and interior designers seeking high-visual-impact prehistoric artifacts.
What increases value
- •The sheer size of the primary tooth (exceeding 5 inches)
- •Popularity of the Spinosaurus genus in pop culture
What lowers value
- •High degree of reassembly and stabilizing fill
- •Perceived 'artificial' nature of the matrix presentation
What makes top-tier examples
- •No internal fractures or reassembly
- •Proven in-situ matrix preservation
Grade & condition
Enamel quality, tip sharpness, and the ratio of natural versus restored material.
Rarity & demand
For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.
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