A Standard Metadata Template For Representing Rock Specimens

This dataset contains a standard template for representing the metadata of rock specimens (e.g., core, microanalysis, hand grab) in the CSIRO Mineral Resources Discovery program. The template includes core properties of samples such as their name, identifier, type, and location, as well as associated metadata such as project, drilling contexts, hazard declaration and physical storage.\nThe template will be used to catalogue legacy and specimens systematically collected through mineral exploration projects. It has been developed iteratively, revised, and improved based on feedback from researchers and lab technicians. This standardized template can prevent duplicate sample metadata entry and lower metadata redundancy, thereby improving the program's physical sample curation and discovery.\nLineage: The template includes a readme section summarising all the metadata fields, including their requirements and definitions. The template incorporates several established controlled terms representing, e.g., sample type, rock type, drill type, EPSG and hazard information to ensure consistency in metadata entry.