Abrasive particles include: 0.50 to 5.00 weight percent of seed particles for alpha-alumina formation selected from the group consisting of alpha-Fe2O3 seed particles, alpha-Al2O3 seed particles, and combinations thereof; 0.50 to 5.00 weight percent of MgO; 0.02 to 0.40 weight percent of Li2O or a molar equivalent amount of at least one alkali metal oxide selected from the group consisting of: Na2O; K2O; combinations of Na2O and Li2O; combinations of K2O and Li2O; combinations of Na2O and K2O; and combinations of Li2O, Na2O, and K2O; and 91.08 to 99.48 weight percent of Al2O3. Methods of making the abrasive particles and abrasive articles incorporating them are also disclosed.