In the current work, 3Y-YZP strengthened with lamellar flaky shape Nb metal particles was obtained by a hot press at 1400 degrees C for 1 h. This composite is unaffected by the low-temperature degradation, humidity-enhanced phase transformation typical of yttria-stabilized zirconia polycrystalline ceramic. The destructive phase transformation is dramatically reduced by the presence of a solid solution of Nb(2)O(5) into the 3Y-TZP matrix. This new 3Y-TZP/Nb composite exhibits an optimal combination of "aging free" and crack growth resistance never attained before.