Spices should be purchased in the smallest quantity available. Date the jar when you open and keep all spices away from heat and light for best results. Spices should be replaced after open for 6 months (though I am guilty of keeping them at least a year) for best results. If you are lucky enough to live in the Bay Area, Rainbow Grocery, a cooperative grocery at Folsom and 13th Street allows you to buy very small amounts of a spice.
1) Salt, high quality sea salt, kosher and fine
2) Black pepper corns
3) Cayenne
4) Cumin
5) Chili powder
6) Cinnamon
7) Paprika (smoked is my preference)
8) Ginger (ground)
9) Oregano
10) Rosemary
11) Tarragon
12) Tumeric
13) Curry powder
14) Crushed red pepper
15) Marjoram
16) Basil
17) Dill
18) Bay leaves
19) Fennel seed
20) Parsley