As one might expect, success in collection building depends less on the random results of brief collecting experiences, but more on setting personal collection goals. When these standards are met, opportunities arise that often trigger specimen acquisition. My most productive collecting tool was the “silver pick” and it was carefully used in my travels. My standards for calcite are simple: specimens must be without damage; feature one of calcite’s five crystal forms; be twinned by one of calcite’s four twin laws; and, if not transparent, it must be colorful. These simple goals are not easy to achieve, so collections of this common mineral are not at all alike. Let’s take a quick look at what I look for when acquiring calcites. Being analytical aside, there’s always that one specimen that jumps out, captures your heart, and you just gotta have it!