How to Display a Mineral Collection

Store Your Collection

• 1

  Catalog each specimen. Label it with a number that corresponds to your record of its location and date found, as well as its important physical descriptions.

• 2

  Place stored minerals in a drawer lined with box lids. You can also use cardboard boxes with soft paper for dividing the minerals.

• 3

  Select a location for your collection to be stored. Look for a spot that's free from dust, moisture and harsh lighting.

• 4

  Consider using an egg carton. Empty egg cartons are great storage containers for smaller minerals.

• 5

  Label the box or tray. Be sure to use the catalog numbers already in use, so you always know what each container holds.

• 6

  Check the minerals in storage periodically. This way you can clean them or even rotate them into the display.

Display Your Collection

• 7

  Choose your favorite pieces. If you have a large collection, it's best to pick a particular type, color, hardness or size for display.

• 8

  Buy a plastic box with dividers. This type of display is best for small minerals that disappear in large displays.

• 9

  Consider placing large minerals on display. These are best displayed in glass cases, which you can buy or build. Then simply set them on a bookshelf.

• 10

  Make sure you choose an accessible display. You will need to clean the display and its contents regularly, since dust can damage minerals.

• 11

  Choose a display location. It's best to stick to a dry, well-ventilated area because moisture can ruin your minerals.

• 12

  Create space between the minerals. Minerals can damage each other when placed directly against other pieces.

• 13

  Buy a display. They can be found online or by catalog. Otherwise, you can build your own with a quick trip to the hardware store.

• 14

  Let natural light shine on the display. Some minerals react badly to artificial light and, if you plan to display different specimens together, this could pose a problem.