Assign Catalog Numbers and Entry Fields
2 hours setupCreate sequential catalog system (RC-001+) with fields for species, formula, locality, collector, date, and acquisition method.
Field context
This workflow is part of 2 niche fields
Complete guide for rock collection catalog — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Create sequential catalog system (RC-001+) with fields for species, formula, locality, collector, date, and acquisition method.
Shoot obverse, reverse, and fresh fracture under diffused light with mm scale bar and catalog number visible.
Record longest axis in mm, note associated minerals, and enter chemical formula from confirmed ID.
Assign drawer, box, and cell coordinates; update catalog with physical location for retrieval.
Interactive 4-phase technical roadmap from prep measurements to final inspection.
Accurately gauge working surface dimensions, inspect sub-layer conditions, and establish reference benchmark baselines.
Adjust project scale to dynamically estimate required materials & budget for Rock Collection Catalog Guide.
Covers 165 sq ft required materials.
Estimated essential tools & safety gear.
Baseline DIY execution cost estimate.
Maintain master catalog spreadsheet with sequential numbers, locality data, and storage location codes.
Archive compressed specimen photos linked to catalog numbers for digital collection backup.
Record measured specific gravity in catalog entry to support species identification confidence.
Track collection date and time since acquisition for provenance and display rotation planning.
Minimum data for scientific collection value.
| Field | Example | Required |
|---|---|---|
| Catalog number | RC-042 | Yes |
| Species | Quartz var. amethyst | Yes |
| Locality | Thunder Bay, ON | Yes |
| Date collected | 2024-07-15 | Yes |
| Storage location | A-3-12 | Recommended |
Field-collected specimens lose locality memory within hours — label at collection site.
Photos without scale are useless for publication or insurance claims.
Paper catalogs burn — quarterly CSV export to cloud is mandatory.
Crucial code requirements, material risk alerts, and prevention checklists for Rock Collection Catalog Guide.
⚠️ Risk Warning: Purchasing net calculated material causes project delays when cuts or breakage occur.
💡 Prevention Action: Always add a 10%-15% buffer allowance to initial calculated quantities.
⚠️ Risk Warning: Applying finishes to dusty or uneven surfaces reduces adhesion by up to 60%.
💡 Prevention Action: Vacuum, prime, and check levelness (max 1/8" gap over 10 ft) before starting.