A reference sample can become a poor reference after handling, damage, or an undocumented change. Keep a retirement log so an old piece does not silently remain the standard.
Record why the reference changed
Give the sample an identifier and note its recorded condition. If it becomes scratched, stained, altered, or hard to identify, flag it for review. Do not assume that a changed appearance proves the engraving itself failed; the cause may be unknown.
Move a retired sample out of the active comparison area but preserve its photographs and notes. Record the retirement reason in plain language, such as surface damaged during storage or material identity missing.
Qualify the replacement separately
A new piece is not equivalent simply because it looks similar. Record its source, material identification, and actual test context before using it as a reference. Link the replacement record to the retired one so reviewers can understand the change.
For AntBelt G1 planning, this is a proposed sample-library practice rather than a published longevity test. Existing sample photography does not supply storage-life or wear guarantees. Keep the library useful by showing which pieces are active references and which remain only historical records.
Browse related AntBelt project notes in /updates/.
Review the current AntBelt G1 project information on Kickstarter: