In the most simple of terms ceramics are inorganic, nonmetallic materials

In the most simple of terms ceramics are inorganic, nonmetallic materials. They are typically crystalline in nature (have an ordered structure) and are compounds formed between metallic and nonmetallic elements such as aluminum and oxygen (alumina, Al₂O₃), calcium and oxygen (CaO), and silicon and nitrogen (silicon nitride, Si₃N₄). In broader terms ceramics also include glass (which has a non-crystalline or amorphous random structure), enamel (a type of glassy coating), glass-ceramics (a glass containing ceramic crystals), and inorganic cement-type materials (cement, plaster and lime). However, as ceramic technology has developed over time, the definition has expanded to include a much wider range of other compositions used in a variety of applications.

Ceramics are in a class by themselves. If you want the best there is, this is it. The Cerbec® ceramic balls are much lighter, harder, stronger, and longer lasting than the finest steel balls.