Dear Roman;-
    I didn't know that the term "Collector" carried with it a series
of qualifications. I thought it applied to anyone who picks up a
shell and keeps it, adding others from time to time. Many
"Collections" are just plain lousy, consisting of shiny broken pieces
more suitable for re-paving driveways. But the people who own and
love them---are "Collectors".
   Now, if you add the word "Serious" to the term "Collector", you
have a standard somewhat above that of "Simple" collector. The
"Serious Collector" is one who studies what he has, adds appropriate
little pieces of paper to be stuffed in the shell's openings,
displays them or not as suits his fancy, but may well do so.
   The next, and we should hope FINAL step, is to be thought od as a
"Gifted Amateur". That cognomen is reserved for those who some
scientific work, volunteer at Museums, write articles for prestigious
publications, and know something about something or other.
    We are all ranked slightly below the professionals. It's like the
Army. We do the work and rise in the ranks to Sargeant or Master
Sargeant. The Pros are the officers---who quite often do exactly the
same as we enlisted men do.
    I hope that's all quite clear.
         Corporal Art Weil