Ann: Further High-Grade Niobium Results from Equador - Brazil, page-491

Niobium deposits in carbonatites have significant economic implications:

Carbonatites are the primary source of economic niobium deposits worldwide, making them crucial for global niobium supply.

Brazil hosts major niobium-producing deposits in carbonatite complexes, accounting for approximately 92% of global niobium production.

Pyrochlore is the main niobium-bearing mineral in these deposits, with some containing high grades of Nb2O5.

Carbonatite-related niobium deposits often contain associated rare earth elements (REEs), phosphates, and other valuable minerals, increasing their economic potential.

Weathering of carbonatite deposits can lead to further concentration of niobium in the regolith zone, potentially enhancing economic viability.

The growing importance of niobium in various industries, including steel production and high-tech applications, increases the economic significance of these deposits.

Exploration and development of carbonatite-hosted niobium deposits continue to be important for meeting global demand and ensuring supply security for this critical metal.

Pegmatite-hosted niobium doesn't seem to provide equivalent economic value unless new techniques in benefication are discovered. This is somewhat similar to the difference of a lithium in a pegmatite and a lithium in a lepidolite.