Finding Florida Fossils

So where do I get the turtle shell and fossilized sharks teeth for my pieces?

Whale vertebra found in a Florida river beneath akraken carving

Well, I live in Florida.  We don't have much stone here, but the rivers and some of the coastal area are loaded with fossils.  A buddy of mine just found a complete mammoth tooth this month.  Most of what I find is smaller and recent finds include sharks teeth, whale vertebra, 'gator jaw and 'gator teeth.

My wife and I love to go out digging for fossils.  We use can use a simple shovel and screen in our secret spots.  But you don't need a special location or equipment, just some luck and a good eye.  It sure helps to know what you are looking for.  While others are looking for sea shells on the coast, my beach walk includes looking for black objects.  I have found sharks teeth, bits of turtle shell and even whale ear bones on gulf coast beaches.

What do I do with them?  I stare at them and wonder.  I also make jewelry out of them.  The turtle shell is a particular favorite.  The color from cocoa brown to black is beautiful.   Teeth are always popular in pendants.   

Check out my website at BeachCut.net because I often include new fossil finds in my pendants.