The focus of this study is on the physical properties of clay ceramic materials compatible for drinking water filtration. A multiparameter lognormal multivariate regression approach is proposed for assessing the combined effects of quantity of compositional constituent of raw materials used in ceramic manufacture on toughness. The approach was validated for two specimen types (T- and S-specimens) derived from a circular base of the frustum shaped, porous clay ceramic ware (PCCW). The PCCW were manufactured from clay and sieved sawdust mixed at distinct volume fractions. The variation of the porosity and density of the PCCW was studied with respect to the amounts of sawdust and clay used in the manufacturing. The research helped to clearly define the roles of clay and sawdust quantities for strength development in both T- and S-specimen. A generalized experimental approach is proposed for estimation of mechanical properties of clay ceramics as a function of the material constituent fractions. A polynomial relationship was developed between the compressive strength and density of the PCCW material. The statistical model expressions developed herein may be used for the prediction of material and mechanical properties of similar materials, including natural and engineered materials. © 2011 American Society of Mechanical Engineers.