Ultimate Guide to EVE Online Ore Types and Their Market Values

Mining ore in EVE Online is a core activity that fuels the in-game economy and supports countless player-driven industries. Whether you are a new pilot looking to start ore mining or a veteran aiming to maximize profits, understanding the different ore types and their market values is essential. This guide breaks down the most important ore categories, their typical locations, and how their values fluctuate in the market. By the end, you will have a clear picture of which ores to target and how to make the most of your mining efforts.

Spaceship extracting ore from asteroid in space, mining operation in EVE Online

Understanding Ore Types in EVE Online

EVE Online features a wide variety of ores, each with unique mineral compositions and market values. These ores are found in asteroid belts, ice fields, and special cosmic anomalies. The ores can be broadly categorized into:

• Common Ores: Easy to find and mine, suitable for beginners.

• Uncommon Ores: Slightly rarer, offering better mineral yields.

• Rare Ores: Found in specific regions or under special conditions, valuable for advanced players.

• Specialty Ores: Include moon ores and ice, used for high-end manufacturing.

  
  

Knowing the differences between these categories helps you plan your mining routes and decide which ships and equipment to use.

Common Ores

Common ores are abundant in high-security space and provide a steady income for new miners. Examples include:

• Veldspar: The most common ore, found in most asteroid belts. It yields Tritanium, a basic mineral used in many blueprints.

• Scordite: Slightly rarer than Veldspar, it contains Tritanium and Pyerite.

• Pyroxeres: Contains Tritanium, Pyerite, and a small amount of Mexallon.

  
  

These ores are easy to mine but have lower market values compared to rarer ores.

Uncommon Ores

Uncommon ores offer better mineral content and are found in lower security or null-sec space. Examples include:

• Plagioclase: Rich in Tritanium and Pyerite.

• Omber: Contains Tritanium, Pyerite, and a good amount of Mexallon.

• Kernite: Valuable for its Mexallon and Isogen content.

  
  

Mining these ores requires better equipment and sometimes more risk, but the payoff is higher.

Market Values and How They Fluctuate

Ore prices in EVE Online depend on supply and demand, regional differences, and player-driven market trends. Prices can vary significantly between trade hubs like Jita, Amarr, Dodixie, and Rens.

Factors Affecting Ore Prices

• Location: Ores mined closer to major trade hubs often sell for less due to high supply.

• Security Level: Ores from null-sec or wormhole space tend to be more valuable due to mining risks.

• Player Demand: Large-scale manufacturing or faction warfare can increase demand for specific minerals.

• Market Events: In-game events or updates can cause sudden price shifts.

  
  

Example Market Values (Approximate)

| Ore Type | Typical Market Price (ISK per m³) | Main Minerals Extracted |

|------------|-----------------------------------|---------------------------------|

| Veldspar | 10,000 | Tritanium |

| Scordite | 15,000 | Tritanium, Pyerite |

| Pyroxeres | 20,000 | Tritanium, Pyerite, Mexallon |

| Plagioclase| 25,000 | Tritanium, Pyerite |

| Omber | 30,000 | Tritanium, Pyerite, Mexallon |

| Kernite | 35,000 | Mexallon, Isogen |

| Jaspet | 45,000 | Mexallon, Isogen, Nocxium |

| Hemorphite | 50,000 | Mexallon, Isogen, Nocxium |

| Hedbergite | 55,000 | Mexallon, Isogen, Nocxium |

| Gneiss | 60,000 | Isogen, Nocxium, Zydrine |

| Dark Ochre | 65,000 | Isogen, Nocxium, Zydrine |

Prices fluctuate daily, so it’s wise to check market trends before committing to large-scale ore mining.

Asteroid belt showing different ore types in EVE Online, space mining environment

How to Choose the Best Ore for Mining

Choosing the right ore depends on your goals, ship capabilities, and risk tolerance. Here are some tips:

• For Beginners: Stick to common ores like Veldspar and Scordite in high-sec space. They are easy to find and sell quickly.

• For Profit: Target uncommon and rare ores in low-sec or null-sec. These ores have higher mineral content and better market prices.

• For Specialization: Focus on specialty ores like moon ores or ice if you want to supply specific industries or build advanced ships.

  
  

Ship and Equipment Considerations

• Use mining barges or exhumers for better yield and tanking.

• Fit mining lasers or strip miners optimized for the ore type.

• Consider using mining drones to speed up extraction.

• Always carry a cargo scanner and be aware of local threats, especially in low-sec or null-sec.

  
  

Tips to Maximize Ore Mining Profits

• Check Market Prices Regularly: Use in-game market tools or third-party websites to track ore prices.

• Mine in Groups: Join mining fleets to increase efficiency and safety.

• Refine Your Ore: Refining ore into minerals can sometimes yield better profits, depending on market demand.

• Use Boosts: Skills, implants, and fleet boosts can improve mining yield.

• Watch for Events: Participate in mining events or faction warfare to access exclusive ores or bonuses.

  
  

Mining barge extracting ore from asteroid in EVE Online, space mining operation

Conclusion