Often it sounds like something you would only come across in a museum or with a passionate peace collector, but more and more people are discovering the unique charm of a Megalodon tooth as a decorative object in the home. These million-year-old fossils are certainly not just a fascinating piece of natural history, in addition to being a distinct interior statement.
In this blog, we take a closer look at the world of the Megalodon tooth with you, from its impressive origins to concrete interior design ideas you can use to enrich your home.
What is a Megalodon tooth anyway?
The Megalodon was an ancient prehistoric shark species that roamed the world's oceans about 23 to 3.6 million years ago. With an estimated length of up to 18 metres, this giant was truly a gigantic predator that roamed our oceans. The teeth of these predators can grow as long as 18 centimetres, this makes the teeth many times larger than those of any other species in history.
Because the skeleton of the shark consists mainly of cartilage, something that does not fossilise well, only the teeth remain. Fossilised over millions of years, these teeth can also vary in colour, which in turn depends entirely on the minerals in the soil where they were found. For instance, the colours can vary from grey and black to brown or even bluish.
Why a Megalodon tooth in your interior?
You probably want to know why a Megalodon tooth will look perfect in your interior. This is not just because of its ancient stories, but also because of the elegance or robust shapes the teeth can have.
A unique piece of nature
We know that a Megalodon tooth is a beautiful work of art in itself, absolutely no two teeth are the same. The shape, colour and also the wear can change significantly. All this simply tells a unique story. It makes each one incredibly personal and also distinctive.
A talking point
No matter if it is during a dinner with friends or a spontaneous visit to the family, a Megalodon tooth just raises questions. People are super curious and will soon ask how old is it or where did it come from? With such a piece in your home, you will always have a fascinating story at the ready.
Timeless and stylish
We know that fossils are often associated with classic and traditional interiors, yet they fit well in a modern setting. A Megalodon tooth can serve just as well as a cool eye-catcher in a minimalist interior as part of an eclectic ensemble.
Different styles, different uses
The most beautiful thing about a Megalodon tooth is that you can integrate the object into your interior in many ways. We would therefore love to give you some ideas below based on various popular interior styles. The beauty of a Megalodon tooth is that you can integrate the object into your interior in many different ways. Below, we give you some ideas based on popular interior styles.
Industrial interior
In the more industrial interiors, where there is normally quite a lot of concrete, metal and also rough materials, the somewhat larger Megalodon teeth really come into their own. For instance, you might want to think about some robust and metal display cases where you can display your tooth on the more black matte stands. In addition, you can also put your tooth on a shelf made of rough wood, this among some old books and vintage accessories. Here you can see that the contrast between old and industrial will intensify.
Modern minimalism
Do you live in a more sleek and modern interior, where that rather a lot of white and grey tones are present? Then a Megalodon tooth can serve as a visual anchor. In this case, you want to opt for a tooth in some more neutral colours. Think grey or beige. In addition, you want to place this solitary on a designer shelf or marble plinth. In this case, Less is more: one perfectly placed tooth can transform your entire interior.
Boho chic
For those who love everything natural, such as plants, materials and other worldly looks, a Megalodon tooth fits extremely perfectly within a bohemian interior. So you'll want to put the tooth next to a beautiful collection of gemstones, as well as fossils or ceramics from different corners of the world. Thus, the earthy look of the fossil will perfectly match the warm and layered style.
Classic or colonial
In the more classic homes where there is a bit of the colonial influence, a Megalodon tooth really does perfectly in combination with the dark wood, leather chairs and also book shelves. You especially want to think of classic study rooms with a wooden desk, a globe and a beautiful Megalodon tooth in a matching glass bell jar.
Practical tips for displaying your Megalodon tooth
Of course, you absolutely want to be able to display your Megalodon tooth properly, for this we have some practical tips for you, let's go over them together:
Choose the right stand or plinth
We at Megalodontand.co.uk would like to give you some different ways to display your tooth. From the sleek metal holders to the rustic wooden pedestals: it is important that the stand matches your living style and also supports the tooth well. This while not distracting from the fossil.
Exposure is everything
A very well-placed spotlight or LED light can make the difference between a tooth blending into the space or attracting attention as you often see with artworks in a gallery. Play with lighting and also shadow to accentuate the texture of the fossil.
Consider the scale
A beautiful 15-centimetre Megalodon tooth can be really overwhelming on a very small wall shelf, yet it comes into its own beautifully on a spacious console or open cabinet. Do you have another smaller space? Then you'll want to consider a smaller tooth or one in more subtle colours.
Creative applications and ideas
While most people choose to display their Megalodon tooth as a stand-alone object, there are also more creative ways to integrate the fossil into your interior.
Framed as an art object
Want to have your tooth framed in a professional way? Then consider a deep frame with some neutral backgrounds. This again makes the tooth extra special and this way it also protects it from dust and touch.
As part of a display case
You can also combine your Megalodon tooth well with other naturally fossilised materials. Think about petrified wood, minerals or some shells. This is the way to create a natural cabinet that is also really stylish and educational.
Interactive play corner for children
It could well be that you yourself have children who are very fond of dino's, fossils and also prehistory. If this is the case, you can set up a real play corner with books, replicas and also real (safely stored) Megalodon teeth. This is the way to stimulate curiosity and in this way you also give your fossils an educational function.
Stories make it personal
A real Megalodon tooth is so much more than just decoration: it is a heritage. Combining the fossil with a personal story only makes the whole thing even more meaningful. Maybe you received it as a gift for a special birthday, maybe you found it during a trip or it was the first purchase for the new home. A nice idea is to write down your story and place it next to the tooth in a nice frame. It's a very small detail that could add an incredible amount.
Responsible collecting: where does your tooth come from?
We at Megalodontand.co.uk attach incredible importance to the origin of our fossils. After all, we only work with reliable suppliers who want to excavate the teeth correctly and responsibly. This is quite often done from river sediment or gravel pits. They do this without damaging the environment or supporting illegal practices.
This is therefore the reason you receive a certificate of authenticity with each tooth, we do this because we fully stand behind our suppliers and the authenticity of the teeth. This helps you to see that it is also a real authentic fossil. Something extracted with respect for nature and also history. Should you have any further questions, we would of course be pleased to hear from you.
Care and maintenance
A real Megalodon tooth has stood the test of time for millions of years, this doesn't mean you have to do absolutely nothing for it. It is of course a completely fossilised fossil, yet it remains a natural product that needs to be treated with care. Proper maintenance ensures that the tooth retains its value and also appearance. This both visually and historically. Below you can read again some important tips and in-depth advice to keep your Megalodon tooth in top condition.
- Avoid direct sunlight
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can have incredibly detrimental effects on tooth colours. Fossils get their unique shades from minerals that have accumulated over many years. If these minerals are exposed to sunlight, they can start to fade or even discolour. This is why you want to choose a place in your home where the fossil is not in the sun day in and day out. We know that a display cabinet, wall shelf or bookcase often provide sufficient protection.
- Dust off regularly
Dust can naturally build up over time, this in the tiny grooves and textures of the tooth. You want to use a soft and dry cloth for this and, in extreme cases, perhaps a small brush such as a brush or photo brush. This is to gently clean the tooth, of course. It's important that you don't apply any pressure when doing this. You just want to avoid rubbing small pieces loose or damaging them. Especially when a fossil has parts that are polished or fragile. At this point, caution is absolutely essential.
- Avoid damp areas
We know that Megalodon teeth are mainly found in moist soil, this does not mean that they can tolerate the moisture well now that they have been removed from their natural environment. In the humid conditions like, for example, the bathroom or a basement without ventilation, the minerals can start reacting to the humidity. Fungi and bacteria can also grow well. This especially when the tooth still contains traces of root structures. Therefore, choose a dry place with a very stable indoor climate.
- Do not use detergents
You really never want to use aggressive cleaning products, including soap and solvents. Many commercial cleaning products contain an awful lot of acids and chemicals which can significantly damage the surface of your Megalodon tooth. Even the milder cleaning products can cause a very undesirable reaction. If a tooth is really dirty, use a slightly damp cloth with just a little water. Of course, you want to thoroughly dry the tooth afterwards.
Summary: why a megalodont tooth is more than decoration
We know that a Megalodon tooth is definitely not just a relic of an extinct animal species. It is a bridge between the past and the present. It is tangible evidence of a gruesome power of nature. Which when properly applied can be a valuable addition to your interior.
Whether you prefer a modern, industrial or classic style. A Megalodon tooth can adapt really easily. It adds an awful lot of character and also evokes admiration. In addition, it also definitely invites conversation. It is a true object with a soul, this is perhaps just what we are looking for in a time when everything is starting to become faster and also more fleeting.
Conclusion
We at Megalodontand.nl therefore love to help everyone get their teeth into their interiors. Please share your interior photos with us when you have placed our teeth to inspire others. After all, as with other works of art, you only really see how beautiful it is in real life when it is placed in context.