One may build a collection along a topical theme, or try to find as many different varieties as possible. However, in other ways fossil collecting can be even more interesting and educational than other forms of collecting, and more important scientifically. Whereas antiques and artifacts are typically hundreds or thousands of years old, most fossils are many millions of years old. Fossils come in a vast array of sizes and shapes, from microscopic specimens to dinosaur skeletons as tall as a house. Unlike most collectibles, fossils were once alive.
Fossils also help expand scientific knowledge.
They help teach us about the origin, diversity, and history of living things, and about the earth itself. Like a painting or sculpture, fossils can be considered works of art, but they are also works of nature. There is no end to the variety of fossils that may be found, or the thrill of discovering new forms. Fossil collecting is literally searching for buried treasure. Fossils are interesting to look at, and fun to collect, prepare, study, and display.