Sand collection -- basics of the hobby

Sand is a naturally occurring material composed of rock and mineral particles. A single particle of sand (a grain of sand) ranges in size from 1/16 mm to 2 mm. The next size up from a sand particle is called "gravel", while the next smaller size is called "silt". When handled, sand has a distinctive gritty feel.

The colour of any particular grain of sand is determined by its chemical composition. The most common type of sand is made of silicon dioxide (usually quartz). These grains are clear or opaque.

White sand is formed from eroded limestone. Black sands are volcanic, as are green sands composed of olivine. In some areas, sand is primarily crushed seashells (calcite), which gives a pinkish cast.

A person who collects sand is called an arenophile. Each collector has their own reasons for collecting sand. Some are interested in geology. Others like to learn about the area of the world each sample has come from. Still others collect to meet other collectors around the world and learn about their cultures.

Start collecting in your own area. Sand is found around the world, so you should be able to find sand near your own home. Check the local laws on collecting samples, and ask permission to collect a sample from the land owner. Some areas may not allow the removal of local minerals without a permit.

When you collect a sample, get enough to trade with others. I like to carry around a plastic spoon for scooping and small zipper bags for storage. This provides plenty of sand for my needs, and extra to share. Once you have your sample (and this is important), immediately label the sample so you know which one is which. Some things to include on the label are the location from which the sample was obtained, the date of collection, and the type of sand (beach, desert, sand dune, etc.).

Once you take your sample home, some cleaning might be in order. I prefer to leave samples in their natural state, but other collectors like to wash them out to remove organic material. If you choose to wash it, be careful not to wash the entire sample down the drain! Before storing the sample, be sure that it is completely dry.

It's important to decide early on how you would like to store your samples. If you choose a large container, you won't be able to display as many samples (and that's no fun). I display my samples in small glass phials, each labelled with a sample number corresponding to an entry in my ledger (see below). Trade-able extras are stored elsewhere in larger jars.

Once you have more than a few samples, it's easy to forget which is which. So, for each sample, make an entry into a ledger or spreadsheet. Some things you might like to record include the sample number, location (including latitude and longitude, if you like), type of sand, sand colour, and whether there's extra to trade.

Accepting samples from others will help your collection grow quickly. If you know other sand collectors, talk to them about trading samples.

Once you have found another collector, discuss how large a quantity of sand will be traded. Since not all collectors like to display the same amount of sand, the number of samples per weight will vary in each trade if you are trading equal amounts of sand.

Before any trade is agreed upon, check the laws of your respective countries. Some countries restrict or prohibit the exchange of mineral samples, so consult a customs reference beforehand. If the exchange is permissible, determine which customs forms will be needed (your local post office can help you with this).

Carefully package and label all samples. I like to use zipper bags, but other possible containers include film containers if you have any or small plastic bottles. Tape the container openings closed to prevent any spillage in transit, then put all samples into a larger zipper bag for extra protection.

Depending on the size and number of samples, this can be shipped in a padded envelope or a small box. If you are so inclined, you can include a note about the samples for the other collector. Happy trading!