COLLECTING AND NAMING VERY SMALL OBJECTS USING THE COLLIER SYSTEM

The following instructions will enable the scientist, naturalist, collector, or enthusiast to collect, name, and classify Very Small Objects. Through these classifications, participants will be able to study and appreciate the Very Small Objects that surround us, giving each individual a greater command and deeper understanding of their environment.

DEFINING A VERY SMALL OBJECT

The first and most important step is to correctly identify what a Very Small Object is. The following definitions describe what may be defined as a Very Small Object for the purposes of naming under the Collier System.

Basic terms as specified by the Oxford English Dictionary :

very - adj. - truly; utterly

small - adj. - less in dimension when compared with others of the same class

object - n. - material thing that can be seen or touched

Further definitions of a Very Small Object:

1. Any object that is visible to the naked eye but small enough to go unnoticed most of the time.

2. The maximum dimensions of a Very Small Object are 8 mm by 8 mm by 25 mm long. The object must be able to fit, unforced, into a 1 dram vial. Anything larger than these minimum dimensions should not be classified under this system.

3. Very Small Objects may consist of any type of solid material.

4. Liquids and gasses may never be categorized as Very Small Objects.

5. Living things may not be classified under this system due to possible overlap with other existing classification systems.

THE BASICS OF COLLECTING

Once you can correctly identify a Very Small Object, you can begin the process of collecting and naming your new object.

Although it is not absolutely necessary, it is useful to assemble a collecting kit. A basic kit should include forceps or tweezers, a writing implement, small transparent containers (glass or plastic vials, or plastic bags), a notepad, and a container for carrying these items.

Official Collier Classification System Collecting Kits are available for purchase. Please send all inquiries about how to obtain one to: bdcollier@societyrne.net

The kit includes: an instructional booklet designed by Collier, a mechanical pencil, 20 small plastic bags, 20 adhesive labels, and forceps.

Brian D Collier