Engineering ceramics have found use in many practical applications. This growing demand for engineering ceramic components triggered interest in effective and safe methods of surface finishing. The paper presents the results of experimental studies into the influence of different counterface materials, contact zone kinematics and abrasive particle concentrations on the wear rate of silicon nitride. Three different counterface materials were used, i.e. grey cast iron, bronze and aluminium. Silicon nitride balls produced by hot isostatic pressing were used as specimens. Abrasive particle concentration in grinding fluid varied from 1 to 10 per cent by weight. Also, an additional motion of the specimen was introduced and combined with the main motion of the counterface. It was found that all three parameters studied have a significant influence on the rate of material removal. The material of the counterface and the additional motion of the specimen were especially important in this respect.