Abstract: A method of preparing PLZT powder with a carbonate process employing Pb(NO.sub.3).sub.2, zirconium oxychloride and chlorides of La and Ti as starting materials. Solutions of each are blended together and added to a solution consisting of NH.sub.4 OH and (NH.sub.4).sub.2 CO.sub.3. The resulting solution undergoes refluxing at proper conditions for a period of time to coprecipitate a majority of particles which form nuclei covered by the carbonates of La, Ti and Pb, and a minority of particles which form nuclei which are covered by the hydroxides of La, Ti and Pb, which are calcined and ground to form PLZT powder.