The iron ore industry is an important segment of the world economy. The main mineral oxides are magnetite and hematite. The composition of iron ore playsan important role in both the iron (blast furnace) and steelmaking operations. Sampling is done both at the source and at the destination. Sampling protocols and preparation are described. The determination of iron, phosphorus, silica and manganese by methods such as gravimetric (Si) and volumetric (P and Mn) have been replaced by more rapid photometric or flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) methods. Instrumental methods such as combustion high‐frequency furnace infrared (IR) (for C and S) FAAS and graphite furnace electrothermal methods, X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometric methods are used to determine analytes for routine process control. These methods are illustrated in the article. Rapid methods for chemical analysis and quality control, developed by the author, could also be cost effective.