Paul F Kerr.pdf | Optical Mineralogy
The study of optical mineralogy dates back to the 19th century, when geologists first began to use microscopes to study minerals. Over the years, the field has evolved, and new techniques have been developed to analyze minerals using optical properties. One of the most significant milestones in the history of optical mineralogy was the publication of Paul F. Kerr's book, "Optical Mineralogy," which became a standard reference for geologists worldwide.
The book is designed as both a theoretical primer and a practical identification guide for students. It is praised for presenting the optical properties of minerals in a clear, straightforward manner, and is divided into two main parts: Optical Mineralogy Paul F Kerr.pdf
Paul F. Kerr’s Optical Mineralogy (3rd Edition) remains a foundational, highly sought-after 1959 textbook for the microscopic identification of minerals. It provides a comprehensive, practical guide to using polarizing microscopes to analyze mineral properties like birefringence, pleochroism, and interference figures. For a digital copy, visit the text at GeoKniga . OPTICAL MINERALOGY The study of optical mineralogy dates back to
Optical Mineralogy has a rich history in geological education. The first and second editions were authored by Austin F. Rogers and Paul F. Kerr. The first edition was originally published under the title Thin-section Mineralogy . Kerr's book, "Optical Mineralogy," which became a standard
Austin F. Rogers passed away in April 1957 before the third edition could be completed. Kerr continued the revision alone, writing in the preface: “His wise counsel as a former professor and his judgment as a mineralogist have been greatly missed during this revision”. The third edition was released in 1959 and contained 442 pages.
Perhaps the most coveted section in the is the series of laboratory exercises at the back. These practice "unknowns" have been used to train geologists for generations. They walk the user through analyzing a virtual thin section step-by-step.