A sol-gel-based strategy for the production of mesoporous, nanostructured, single-phase La9.33Si6O26 apatite in an aerogel-type framework is reported (see Figure). The crystallization temperature of these nanoarchitectures is low (800 degrees C), thus preventing detrimental particle growth. This morphology allows sintering to dense ceramics at lower temperatures relative to other nanocrystalline forms, which is advantageous for the application of these materials as electrolytes in solid-oxide fuel cells.