The spot reference price for 62% Fe iron ore cfr North China rose 3.9% to $131.70 for the week ending July 19, 2013.  The price climbed as high as $131.90 during the week, which was the highest price since April 30, 2013, before settling at $131.70 at the end of the week.

The spot price for iron ore averaged $112.12 in 3Q12, $120.57 in 4Q12, $148.16 in 1Q13, and $125.76 in 2Q13; the full-year 2012 average was $128.30.

The post-recession low was $59.10 on March 27, 2009, while the high was $190.19 on February 17, 2011.

Source: The Steel Index