An attempt at a subjective categorization of the different type of stings delivered by hymenopterans, created by Justin O. Schmidt in 1990. Dr. Schmidt reportedly subjected himself to many of these stings personally in order to accurately describe and categorize them.

The Index is known for its colorful descriptions of pain, for example, a pain rating of 4.0+ (the highest available on the scale) is described as "Like fire-walking over flaming charcoal with a 3-inch rusty nail in your heel."