How we organize our shell collections; log books, card catalogues, and computers

摘要

As shell collectors we tend to spend more of our time, energy and efforts with the shells in our collections, as we should, because they are the beautiful creations that got us interested in this hobby to begin with. Sadly, the hard work of curating a collection is often neglected. Curating includes acquisition, care, cleaning, organization, and preservation of both the shell and, most importantly, the data associated with the shell. Collecting, cleaning, touching, and handling the shells are the fun parts of our hobby. Keeping and maintaining a scientifically organized collection with full locality data in a manner so that data can be recalled and used at a later date is the hard part. So, why do it? The scientists and museums will tell you that a pretty shell without complete locality data is of little value - scientifically. Nevertheless, we all know that a rare and beautiful shell in gem condition will still sell for serious money to collectors at an auction. Some people just want pretty shells to decorate their homes. Others use shells in arts and crafts. Many of us appreciate having a museum style collection, arranged in a systematic manner, in drawers, easy to access and work with, however we chose to do so.