Abstract: This invention comprises methods, systems, and devices for tagging objects with one or more particles of complex geometry, individually and in combination. The particles are created via the process of either artificial or biological/natural self-assembly and are used for tagging or labeling various goods in order to identify those goods. The particles may be used individually or in combination as a plurality of particles which are scattered or positioned in a pattern. For example, the use of ultrabright fluorescent silica particles comprising complex optical fluorescent spectra and/or geometrical shapes to tag and authorize objects is disclosed. Application methods and materials are disclosed as well as methods and devices for detecting and decoding resulting tags or labels.

Abstract: This invention comprises methods, systems, and devices for tagging objects with one or more particles of complex geometry, individually and in combination. The particles are created via the process of either artificial or biological/natural self-assembly and are used for tagging or labeling various goods in order to identify those goods. The particles may be used individually or in combination as a plurality of particles which are scattered or positioned in a pattern. For example, the use of ultrabright fluorescent silica particles comprising complex optical fluorescent spectra and/or geometrical shapes to tag and authorize objects is disclosed. Application methods and materials are disclosed as well as methods and devices for detecting and decoding resulting tags or labels.