Abstract: A method for identifying ceramics suitable for use as thermal barrier coatings is presented, based on parameters associated with thermal conductivity, oxygen diffusivity, thermal expansion coefficient, maximum temperature capability, hardness, elastic modulus, density, and chemical reactivity. A ceramic thermal barrier coating and method of manufacture is further presented, the ceramic comprising yttrium aluminum garnet (Y.sub.3 Al.sub.5 O.sub.12, or YAG)-based ceramics. Such ceramics are based on yttrium aluminum garnet or other ceramics with the garnet structure and alloys thereof. The ceramics in accordance with the present invention have low thermal conductivity, and are more potentially durable than prior art zirconia based ceramics.