CATALOGING MINERALOGICAL, PALEONTOLOGICAL, AND ARCHEOLOGICAL SPECIMENS FOR THE RUTGERS GEOLOGY MUSEUM FOR THE CREATION OF AN OPEN ACCESS DATABASE

The Rutgers Geology Museum is home to a substantial collection of more than 20,000 geological specimens. However, due to the nature of the specimens’ acquisitions and previous management, many have improper designations, unethical sourcing, or an underemphasis on their significance. Through the combination of archival research and database cataloging over the past few years, an online database has been created that will be made publicly available for geological research, geoscience education, and broader scientific communication applications. This database includes each specimen’s dimensions, place of origin, donor, and historical labels all contained within an easily navigable website. Mineral specimens with previously archaic designations have been reclassified and cataloged for use in mineralogy classes. Similarly, many significant paleontological and archeological specimens have been rediscovered through archival research allowing for the creation of new exhibits within the museum. The museum’s online database opens a new avenue for geological research and education as understudied specimens have been made publicly available for researchers and educators alike.