Iron ore is the raw mineral material from which most common iron and steel goods in Faerûn ultimately originate. Dug from surface workings and deep mines alike, the ore varies greatly in richness and quality before being crushed, sorted, and sent to smelters. Though unremarkable beside silver or gemstones, iron ore supports an enormous network of miners, smelters, smiths, soldiers, builders, and craftsmen throughout the Realms.
Iron ore is primarily purchased by smelters and foundries, where it is processed into usable iron for weapons, armor, tools, construction hardware, wagon fittings, and countless other manufactured goods. Because of its weight and relatively low value, merchants typically transport ore in bulk over short distances or along inexpensive river and maritime routes.
| Type | Trade Category | Availability | License Tier | Source Cost | Wholesale Price | Base Price | Premium Price | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metals | Raw Ores & Minerals | Common | 0 | 0.008 gp/lb (1 cp) | 0.010 gp/lb | 0.02 gp/lb | 0.03 gp/lb | 1 lb. (pricing unit) |
Production Stage: Raw Resource
Item Roles: Trade Good
Production Method: Mining
Production Facility: Mine
Iron ore is common in established mining regions but seldom appears as a general trade commodity far from its source. Because raw ore is heavy and comparatively low in value, most production is sold directly to nearby smelters and foundries. Merchants traveling beyond mining districts are far more likely to encounter refined iron bars and stock than shipments of raw ore. Iron ore is primarily a bulk industrial commodity. Prices are normally negotiated by the ton or wagonload rather than by the pound.
Export Locations: Mirabar, The Great Rift, Damara
Premium Markets:
Exotic Markets:
Exotic Market Notes
Iron ore is rarely transported to distant or exotic markets. Its low value relative to its weight makes long-distance shipment uneconomical in most circumstances. Mining operations typically sell ore to nearby smelters, with refined iron stock entering regional and long-distance trade instead.
Common Buyers: Smelters, ironworks, foundries, mining companies
Common Producers: Mining companies, dwarven mining clans, independent prospectors, noble-owned mines, chartered mining concerns
Profit Potential: Low
Iron ore requires little specialized storage and can be kept in piles, bins, carts, or sacks. Keeping shipments reasonably dry reduces unnecessary weight and simplifies handling and processing.
Transport Risks: Low
Storage Difficulty: Easy
Spoilage Risks: None
Inspection Frequency: Rare
Smuggling Appeal: Low
Regulation Level: Low
Iron ore is a heavy, low-margin commodity whose value is concentrated near the mines that produce it. Most ore moves only a short distance to local smelters and ironworks, where it is converted into more valuable and transportable iron or steel stock. Long-distance shipments are uncommon and generally occur only when unusually rich deposits, local shortages, or exceptionally cheap transport make the trade worthwhile.
| Tier | Description |
|---|---|
0 - Open |
This item may be freely bought, sold, transported, and stored without special permits or registration. Open Trade goods form the foundation of everyday commerce and are rarely subject to inspection beyond normal taxation. |
1 - Registered |
This item is legal to trade but may be subject to routine taxation, record-keeping, or inspection when transported in commercial quantities. Merchants conducting regular business in these goods are often expected to maintain a recognized trade registration. |
2 - Controlled |
This item is considered hazardous, specialized, or otherwise regulated. Merchants may be required to obtain a trade license, maintain records of sale, or submit shipments for inspection. Bulk transport is often monitored by guilds, city authorities, or trade officials. |
3 - Restricted |
This item possesses significant economic, strategic, or industrial value. Trade is limited to approved merchants, guild members, chartered companies, or licensed organizations. Unauthorized possession or transport may result in confiscation, fines, or suspension of trade privileges. |
4 - Chartered |
This item is subject to monopolies, exclusive trade agreements, state control, or powerful guild charters. Production, transport, and sale are closely regulated. Access is typically restricted to organizations operating under special contracts, noble grants, or government authorization. |
5 - Prohibited |
This item is illegal to produce, possess, transport, or sell within most jurisdictions. Exceptions are rare and generally require direct authorization from ruling authorities. Violations often carry severe penalties, including imprisonment, asset seizure, exile, or execution. |