Optical mineralogy is the study of the interaction between light and minerals, which is essential in understanding the properties and identification of minerals. One of the most renowned experts in this field is Paul F. Kerr, a geologist and mineralogist who made significant contributions to the development of optical mineralogy. His book, "Optical Mineralogy," is a seminal work that has been widely used by students and professionals in the field.
Because it is still a required text in many undergraduate programs (University of Arizona, University of Washington, Colorado School of Mines, etc.), copyright holders actively protect it. While you may find scanned copies on obscure file-sharing sites, these are often:
The appendix is a cheat code. It includes: optical mineralogy paul f kerr pdf
These cover the physics of light, refractive index, and the petrographic microscope. Do not skip this even if you are in a hurry. Kerr uses a conversational style: he describes Becke lines as "a halo of light that moves like a ghost as you raise the stage."
: Covers a wide range of minerals, including common silicates like feldspars, amphiboles, and pyroxenes. Optical mineralogy is the study of the interaction
Search smart, study hard, and may your Becke lines always move inward.
Explaining the physical principles of light as it interacts with mineral structures. His book, "Optical Mineralogy," is a seminal work
It differentiates between minerals where light travels at the same speed in all directions (isotropic) and those where it is split into two rays (anisotropic/birefringent).
For those interested in learning more about optical mineralogy, we recommend the following resources: