In the past, we have produced for researchers 150mm lengths of high purity aluminium oxide ( Alumina ) and magnesium oxide of various diameters. Because they were made by vacuum extrusion, machining them was an art. Their density was lower than that achievable by other processes.
We can now produce a range of oxides of much higher density which are considerably easier to machine, with wall thickness down to 0.3mm.
The round pre-forms at present available are 10mm in diameter and 20mm long, when held in a simple plastic collet, Alumina; stabilised Zirconia and magnesium oxide can be drilled and turned with ease.