[en] Mg-10Gd-3Y-0.5Zr alloys with and without 1% Zn additions have been investigated using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction. The microstructures, ageing hardening behaviors and mechanical properties of the two alloys are compared. The extruded-T5 specimens exhibit remarkable age hardening responses during ageing from 200 to 250 deg. C. The highest peak hardness and strength of the two alloys are obtained when they are aged at 200 deg. C. Addition of 1% Zn to Mg-10Gd-3Y-0.5Zr alloy results in the greater magnitude ageing effect and better mechanical properties as well as better heat resistance. Furthermore, secondary ageing is carried out at 200 deg. C following preliminary ageing at 250 deg. C for both Mg-10Gd-3Y-0.5Zr and Mg-10Gd-3Y-1Zn-0.5Zr alloys. The ultimate tensile strength values after secondary ageing are slightly lower compared with the highest strength of the two alloys, but secondary ageing offers a better combination of high strength and ductility