Create Memories of the Summer: Start a Sand Collection

For many people, the heat of summer creates a great reason to plan a trip out to the coast for a little time on the beach. These vacations give us the chance to cool off in the water, inhale a bit of that cool ocean air, or simply play in the sand. Of course, there is also the opportunity to do a little science. This summer, why not start a new hobby and learn a little bit about the world around you. This summer, capture the memories of summer by taking a bit of the beach home with you. This summer, start a sand collection!

Sand collecting has been around for quite some time. In fact, there's a special name we give to folks who enjoy the hobby of collecting sand. They're called psammophiles (psammo - sand, phile - lover of). I'm sure you know people that collect fossils or rocks. Well, sand collecting is just as fascinating! I started collecting sand about 10 years ago. Today, I have a collection that includes sand samples from Ethiopia, Israel, and Namibia. I've collected some of it myself. However, I've also been given sand by other sand collectors or people who collect it for me during trips and vacations.

Now, you are probably asking yourself, "what's so exciting about sand?" After all, it's everywhere. In fact, it's so un-special that we let our kids and cats play in it. However, if you take the time to explore, you will find that sand is actually very interesting. It comes in an endless variety of colors, textures, components, and grain shapes. For example, sand collected in Papakolea, Hawaii is green in color. While sand collected in the Namib Desert is dark red. People have collected sand with star-shaped grains as well as sand that sings when you walk on it.

People get involved with collecting sand for a number of different reasons. Some are interested in the geology or mineralogy. Others are interested in geography and learning about the different regions of the world. There are others who like to reminisce about the places they have traveled and visited. Still others simply appreciate the natural beauty and uniqueness of sand from around the world. Whatever the reason, sand collecting is a popular and very fulfilling hobby. Interested? Here's what you need to know to get started.

What Exactly Is Sand?

Basically, sand is a material composed of small bits of rocks, minerals, and shells. It can be found all of over the world; beaches, riverbeds, mountain tops, deserts, and playgrounds. Of course, that's the very basic answer. A sedimentologist might use a slightly more specific definition: material consisting of particles ranging in size from 1/16 mm to 2.0 mm. The International Sand Collectors Society uses the following definition:

Practically, sand may be considered to consist of small detrital fragments (rock or minteral particles liberated by mechanical disintegration of parent rock material), biogenic particles (shells or shell fragments) or chemical precipitates (evaporites or oolites) occurring in nature and distinguishable by the naked eye.

And yes...there is an International Sand Collectors Society!

Here's What You Need to Get Started Collecting Sand

• A container to hold the sand. I usually use Baby Soda Bottles or zip lock plastic bags. Both are cheap, easy to carry, and can be closed securely. If you want to collect enough sand to share or trade with others, you may need a bigger container.
  

• A pen and paper. You want to record the time and place where you collected the sand. I usually write it on a small piece of paper and stick it in the container with my sample.

• A metal spoon. You need something to dig with.

• A magnifying lens, eye loop, or hands lens. It's nice to get a close look at the sand you collect. It may help you to distinguish between different samples of sand in the same area.

Things to Keep in Mind

• You don't have to travel to some exotic location to start your sand collection. You can start in your own back yard. Sand is found all over the world. Chances are that you have some interesting samples near your home.

• Sand collected in the natural world is often a little moist...if not down right wet (whenever possible try to collect sand that is not overly wet). When you get back home from your collecting expedition, pour your sample onto a sheet of paper and allow it to drive thoroughly.

• Find a good place to store your samples. Remember, your collection will grow. Find a place that is safe and convenient.

• Getting a close look at your sand might require the use of a microscope. Consider purchasing a scope. With it you will be able to truly appreciate the sand you are collecting.
  

• Last make sure that you observe the laws in areas where you plan to collect sand. If the land is privately owned, you should obtain permission before collecting any samples. Also you should be aware of any local, state, or federal laws which might restrict you from taking sand.

For more information about sand collecting, visit the website of The International Sand Collectors Society (yes, there is a society...and it's international). If you decide to start a collection, let us know. You never know...we might have some sand to trade.