One of the most valuable assets in Kerr’s book is the inclusion of determinative tables. Unlike dichotomous keys that force a strict path, Kerr often utilizes tabular data where minerals are grouped by optical properties (e.g., "Minerals with Low Relief" or "Minerals with High Birefringence").
This allows the student to use a "process of elimination" based on observed data:
Yes. Despite its age, lack of color, and copyright ambiguities, Optical Mineralogy by Paul F. Kerr remains a masterpiece of technical writing. Optical Mineralogy Paul F Kerr.pdf
Why does the search for "Optical Mineralogy Paul F. Kerr.pdf" persist? Because Kerr teaches you to see with the microscope. While modern software can identify a mineral in seconds, Kerr forces you to understand the physics of why light bends, splits, and colors the mineral.
If you can obtain a legitimate digital copy through your academic library, treasure it. If you find a free scan, treat it as a study aid—but respect the author’s legacy by eventually purchasing a used hardcover if you pursue geology as a career. One of the most valuable assets in Kerr’s
Final Tip for Students: When you open that PDF, go straight to page 87 (in the 3rd edition) and read the section on "The Becke Line Method" three times. Master that, and you will identify 90% of unknown minerals before your classmates even find their Bertrand lens.
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Use Kerr’s flowcharts in the back of the PDF. His identification scheme is linear: