Abstract: The present invention relates to a ball and seat valve having an improved design that increase the reliability and fracture resistance of the seat. The fracture resistance of the seat is increased by providing the seat with a beveled edge. When a force is exerted on the seat along its central axis, the beveled edge creaes a compressive component of force on the inside of the seat. The ball and seat valve is particularly useful when the seat is fabricated from a ceramic material. The ball and seat valve is useful in industries where it is subjected to a highly corrosive environment, such as the oil pumping industry.