Iron ore is a naturally occurring rock or mineral from which metallic iron can be economically extracted, primarily used to produce steel. Iron ore consists of rocks and minerals rich in iron oxides, which can be processed to extract metallic iron. Common forms of iron in these ores include hematite (Fe2O3) and magnetite (Fe3O4). The ores vary in color from dark grey to rusty red, bright yellow, or deep purple, depending on the mineral composition and oxidation state of the iron.