Samarium-modified lead titanate ceramics (Pb1-xSmxTi1-2WyFeyO3 with x = 0.02, 0.05, 0.10, 0.20 and y = 0.02) were prepared by a high-temperature solid state reaction method. Cold-pressed pallets were sintered at 1250 C for 3 h. Lattice parameters and crystal tetragonality was determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. Indentation-induced Vickers microhardness testing results are presented. The load-independent values of the Vickers microhardness are worked out on application of Hays and Kendall's law for different samarium compositions of the modified lead titanate ceramics. Fracture toughness, brittleness index and internal stress have also been measured by the microindentation technique. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.