2021-7-14 · COLUMBITE, a rare mineral consisting of iron niobate, FeNb 2 O 6, in which the iron and niobium are replaced by varying amounts of manganese and tantalum respectively, the general formula being (Fe, Mn) (Nb, Ta) 2 O 6 was in this mineral that Charles Hatchett discovered, in 1801, the element niobium, which he himself called columbium after the country (Columbia or America) whence …