This invention relates to a method for making shaped bodies having a silica content of at least 85 wt %, to shaped bodies made by such method, to catalyst compositions comprising shaped bodies made by such methods and to catalytic conversion processes using catalyst compositions comprising shaped bodies made by such methods. The method of making the shaped bodies comprises the steps of a) forming shaped bodies from a mixture obtained from at least one amorphous silica powder, at least one silica sol having a pH below 7, and at least one polymeric organic extrusion aid, optionally supplemental liquid medium and optionally crystallites of a zeolite or zeolite-type material; b) drying the shaped bodies obtained in step a); and c) heating the shaped bodies to a temperature ranging from about 500° C. to about 800° C.