it has been written: "There is a single criterion to be observed when
structuring and developing a collection: it should give as much pleasure
as possible to the collector!": this is only true for collectors whose
sole purpose is "pleasure" (**not** to say this isn't a valid reason to
collect - ultimately it is the one that starts most collections in the
first place!!): if there is also an element of scientific interest
involved, as is the case with most shell collections, then it is also
very important to keep the original data associated with each item - and
to question any data that seems "suspicious".  This will also be
important if the collector wishes to ultimately pass the collection on
to an individual or organization, or to sell it. So long as this
principle is followed (as well as the general principle of "never"
deliberately altering a shell in a non-reversable manner, such as lip
filing or polishing - except where the shell is only desired as a
beautiful object), then how one "structures or develops" a collection is
completely up to the individual conchologist: by continent or region,
systematics (class, order, superfamily, family, genus....), shape size
or color - this is unimportant in the final analysis, and indeed should
be "whatever turns your crank" as a collector!

From the great not-as-white-as-before North (hasn't snowed here since
last week!);
-Ross.
--
Ross Mayhew: Schooner Specimen Shells:
Http://www.schnr-specimen-shells.com
"We Specialize in the Unusual"
Phone: (902) 876-2241; Fax: (902) - 479 - 1863
But try to find "something for Everyone"!!
Snail Mail: 349 Herring Cove Rd, P.O Box 20005, Halifax, N.S., Canada,
B3R 2K9.