The fire assay analysis is the method of choice for the analysis of precious metals traces in ores. Traditionally a complex and long preparation process, including the so-called "cupellation" is followed by analysis by gravimetry, ICP-OES or ICP-MS that require a few hours at least.. With the Thermo Scientific ARL FAA that includes the latest developments in optical emission spectroscopy, the cupellation is suppressed and all the precious metals are measured at the requested levels in less than a minute.