Rare earth molybdate crystals such as those based on lanthanum, neodymium and some mixed molybdates, grown by the gel method, were analysed for major and trace impurity elemental concentrations using energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence spectrometry in order to understand the characteristics of the material in terms of structural perfection and composition. The method used permits the simultaneous determination of rare earth elements such as La and Nd and also Mo and impurities such as Fe and Zn. Based on the observed concentrations of major elements, it is shown that the formulae so far assumed for some of these composites may be incorrect and may need a major refinement. Monoenergetic x-rays of 22.1 and 59.6 keV were employed for fluorescence excitation and optimum detection efficiency was obtained for a large number of elements. Pulverized samples mixed with cellulose powder and specimens prepared in the form of pellets were used. The fundamental parameter method was used for the quantitative estimation of elemental concentration.