Niobium-doped Pb(Zr0.53Ti0.47)O-3 (PZTN) ceramics were prepared by the conventional (mixed oxides) method, modified by the addition of a PZT colloid of the same composition. The colloidal precursor was prepared using a coprecipitation method. Such an addition produced a significant improvement in the sinterability of a conventionally prepared PZTN powder and the sintering temperature was reduced, achieving a density greater than or equal to 98% theoretical density at 1075 degrees C for 2 h. The measured piezoelectric properties were as high as k(p)= 0.62 and d(33) = 330 x 10(-12) CN-1.