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.
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.