The mortar analysis techniques of H. Jedrzejewska (Jedrzejewske, 1960), E. B. Cliver (Cliver, 1974) and the American Society for Testing and Materials, (ASTM, Designation C8566, 1971) were tested by the authors against eight mortar standards of known composition. For each technique, the accuracy and applicability in the analysis of historic mortars were ascertained, establishing the advantages and limitations of each. The analysis technique of H. Jedrzejewska, which indicates the quantity of sand and the possible presence of hydraulic cement, best answers the questions of what materials and in what proportions. Noting the limitations of simple chemical techniques in determining the mineralogical com-position of mortars, the authors suggest investigation into crystallographic and petrological techniques for historic mortar analysis.