Ixiolite is a rare mineral that belongs to the columbite-tantalite group. It is a black, opaque mineral rich in tantalum and niobium that is commonly found in granite pegmatites. There aren't many synonyms for ixiolite, but some mineral collectors refer to it as "black tantalite" or "columbite." However, these terms are not completely accurate as they can refer to different minerals within the same group. Another similar mineral is "ferrotantalite," which is also rich in tantalum and iron. Ixiolite is a fascinating mineral due to its rarity and its value in electronics and technology.