Ixiolite

A variety of Minerals

Ixiolite specimen

What is Ixiolite?

Ixiolite is an accessory oxide mineral found in granitic pegmatites. It is an oxide with the general chemical formula (Ta,Nb,Sn,Mn,Fe)4O8 or (Ta,Mn,Nb)O2.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Ixiolite before comparing listings or appraisals.

Size & Weight

Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.

Rarity & Demand

Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.

Condition & Finish

Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.

Treatment & Provenance

Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Ixiolite Localities Map

See where Ixiolite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

Key Characteristics

Formation of Ixiolite

It was first described in 1857 for an occurrence at Skogsböle, Kimito Island, Finland. The name is for Ixion, the Greek mythological character related to Tantalus, as the mineral contains tantalum. Ixiolite is typically associated with feldspar, tapiolite, cassiterite, microlite, and rutile.

Composition of Ixiolite

Ixiolite was originally reported as crystallizing in the monoclinic crystal system. Detailed studies of the scandium, tin and titanium rich varieties indicate that they form crystals in the orthorhombic system whereas tungsten ixiolite is monoclinic.

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Steel-grey, black
Hardness (Mohs)
6 - 6.5
Density
7.39 g/cm³

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
(Ta,Nb,Sn,Fe,Mn)4O8
Elements
Mn, Nb, O, Ta

Also Known As

IxioliteIxionoliteKimito-tantalite
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Ixiolite FAQs

How do I identify Ixiolite?

Ixiolite can be identified by its hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale, Steel-grey color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Ixiolite?

Ixiolite typically appears in Steel-grey, black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Ixiolite?

Ixiolite has a hardness of 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.

What is the formation of ixiolite of Ixiolite?

It was first described in 1857 for an occurrence at Skogsböle, Kimito Island, Finland. The name is for Ixion, the Greek mythological character related to Tantalus, as the mineral contains tantalum. Ixiolite is typically associated with feldspar, tapiolite, cassiterite, microlite, and rutile.

What is the composition of ixiolite of Ixiolite?

Ixiolite was originally reported as crystallizing in the monoclinic crystal system. Detailed studies of the scandium, tin and titanium rich varieties indicate that they form crystals in the orthorhombic system whereas tungsten ixiolite is monoclinic.

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