Abstract: The present invention relates to a sintered nitride-based ceramic material, where the presence of polytype of Si-Al-O-N together with beta' and/or alpha' Si-Al-O-N constitutes the main components. It also contains an intergranular phase and depending on the composition crystalline AlN or Al.sub.2 O.sub.3. The properties of the material, such as the wear resistance and toughness behaviour, can be improved by adding hard refractory principles and/or fine whisker like fibers. Coating with hard, inert and wear resistant layers is another alternative. The material is suitable to use where the demands of resistance to thermal shocks, high mechanical strength or high heat conductivity are great. It has turned out to be especially suitable for cutting tools but also other applications are possible, e.g. as engine components, wear parts, heat exchangers or as substrate material in the electronic industry.