A crucible comprising Al2O3 and at least one selected from rare earth oxides inclusive of Y2O3 as main components and characterized by firing at 500-1,800° C., the distribution of the rare earth oxide at a higher proportion in a fine particle portion having a particle size of-up to 0.5 mm than in a coarse particle portion having a particle size in excess of 0.5 mm, and the substantial absence of the reaction product of the rare earth oxide with Al2O3 is suitable for the melting of a rare earth alloy.