Real vs Fake Shark Tooth Necklace – How to Tell the Difference
Yes — real shark tooth necklaces exist, and they are very different from replicas. A real shark tooth necklace is made with an authentic tooth sourced from a shark, while fake versions are often made of resin, plastic, or ceramic. Here’s how to spot the difference, why it matters, and how to buy with confidence.
🔍 1. Look Closely at the Tooth Texture
- Real tooth: Slight imperfections, natural ridges, and micro-scratches from the shark’s life.
- Fake tooth: Too smooth, glossy, and uniform. Resin or plastic often looks “too perfect.”
🌊 2. Check the Weight and Feel
- Real shark tooth: Feels heavier, cool to the touch, and denser than plastic.
- Fake shark tooth: Light, sometimes hollow, and warms quickly in your hand.
💎 3. Examine the Edges
- Real: Serrations (tiny saw-like edges) are sharp and detailed, especially on species like Tiger or Bull shark.
- Fake: Edges are dull, rounded, or blurred.
♻️ 4. Ask About Sourcing
- Real: Sellers like Oceanicshark use teeth sourced as by-products of fisheries, backed by CITES compliance.
- Fake: Sellers rarely mention sourcing, legality, or sustainability.
🎁 5. Consider the Value & Meaning
- A real shark tooth necklace is a collector’s item and a powerful symbol of strength and connection to the sea.
- Fake versions are just costume jewellery, with no story or heritage.
✅ Quick Comparison Table
|
Feature |
Real Shark Tooth Necklace |
Fake Shark Tooth Necklace |
|
Material |
Genuine shark tooth |
Resin, plastic, ceramic |
|
Look |
Natural variations, ridges |
Smooth, uniform, glossy |
|
Weight |
Dense, heavier |
Light, hollow |
|
Edges |
Sharp serrations |
Rounded, dull |
|
Sourcing |
Licensed fisheries, ethical |
Unclear, often not mentioned |
❓ FAQs
Q: Are most shark tooth necklaces sold online fake?
A: Many cheap options on mass-market sites are replicas. Always check sourcing and authenticity.
Q: Is it legal to buy a real shark tooth necklace?
A: Yes, when it comes with proper CITES export permits. Oceanicshark ensures every piece is legal and ethical.
Q: Why choose real over fake?
A: A real necklace carries the ocean’s history, cultural symbolism, and collector’s value. Fakes are just decorations.
🌏 Why Buy from Oceanicshark?
Oceanicshark, based in South Australia, is one of the only global suppliers with permission to sell genuine shark jaws and teeth. Every Real Shark Tooth Necklace is handmade, ethically sourced, and comes with the peace of mind of compliance and sustainability.