ABSTRACTThe synthesis of a new lithium tantalum oxynitride is described. The compound, LiTaO₃-3_xN_2x was synthesized by reacting LiTaO₃ with anhydrous ammonia at temperatures ranging from 773 K to 1173 K. Depending on the reaction temperature the sample color changes from white to tan (773 K) to bright orange (973 K) to red (1123 K). The color appears to be the result of a p-d transition consistent with a charge transfer from localized nitrogen states to a band of predominately metal character. Electrical and magnetic measurements indicate that the material is a diamagnetic insulator.