The improved performance of silicon nitride components over all-steel bearings in several applications has been demonstrated. However, the effects of grain size, intergranular phase composition, fracture toughness, and hardness on rolling wear and fatigue performance are not completely understood. Three commercial bearing materials were tested under standard conditions and their physical properties were obtained. Wear and fatigue properties were compared to physical properties and material composition. It was found that a high fracture toughness is not required for high fatigue life and wear resistance. Total wear and fatigue life of the assembly must be considered, in addition to performance of the ceramic material alone, for specific applications. Grain boundary composition did not appear to affect the wear mechanism of these hot-isostatically-pressed materials.Presented at the 48th Annual Meeting in Calgary, Alberta, Canada May 17–20, 1993