columbite

Definition

A black or brownish-black mineral ore that is a primary source of niobium and often occurs in association with tin-bearing minerals like cassiterite.

Etymology

Derived from the element niobium, which was originally named 'columbium' after Columbia, the poetic name for the United States, where the first specimen of the mineral was discovered.

In the news

Columbite is mentioned as one of the minerals often found in complex deposits alongside cassiterite, which is the primary subject of the article's new X-ray sorting technology research.

New ore sorting technology sees inside cassiterite

International Tin Association

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