Ceramic igniter compositions are provided that contain components of conductive material and insulating material, where the insulating material component includes a relatively high concentration of metal oxide. Ceramic igniters of the invention are particularly effective for high voltage use, including throughout the range of from about 187 to 264 volts. Igniters of the invention also are useful for lower voltage such as 120 V or 102 V and sub- 100 V such as 6, 8, 12 or 24 V.