Collecting sand from every nation is one thing. Collecting it legally is something very different.

It took six years. And persistence — asking, waiting, asking again. And again. Then once more.

The founder of OUAW, together with family, friends and eventually a global network of more than 1,000 people — geologists, travelers, researchers, locals and institutions across every continent — built the collection piece by piece.

Sand collection is restricted or prohibited in many places — protected beaches, nature reserves, geological sites. The rules vary by country, region and sometimes by specific location. Permits were obtained. Protected areas were respected. Every sample was gathered with the knowledge and cooperation of local authorities and environmental organizations.

This is not casual souvenir collecting. It is documented, permitted, cooperative work.

Slowly the jars filled.