Abstract: A method for forming stable structures which includes identifying compositions having a high probability of forming stable structures using predictive modeling and synthesizing the compositions under high pressure and high temperature conditions to form the stable structures. Preferred stable structures are perovskites having a three-dimensional framework of corner-linked MX6 octahedra. The predictive modeling allows evaluation of structural stabilities of given compositions while providing hypothetical molar volumes. It also estimates the molecular polarizability of the compositions from the atomic polarizabilities of its constituent ions. The predictive modeling also calculates the relative dielectric constant of the stable structures using the Clausius-Mossotti relationship and selects compositions having combinations of ions with complimentary ionic radii and bonding preferences.