This paper presents an experimental study on the formation of macro- and micro- cracks formed during the machining of ceramic materials. Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) was used as the testing material and polycrystalline diamond tipped carbide inserts were used for material removal. The cutting force was recorded during machining and surface finish was measured after machining. an environmental SEM was used to obtain high-magnification images of macro- and microcracks induced by machining. With the assistance of a computer-based vision system, qualification of fracture surfaces with respect to crack nucleation, growth, and cleavage was attempted. Results from this research provide an insight into the prevailing mechanisms of material removal during the machining of ceramics, and suggest the development of crack- controlled machining technologies.