NaLa(MoO4)(2): RE3+ (RE3+= Eu3+, Sm3+) microspheres have been synthesized at 180 degrees C via a facile EDTAmediated hydrothermal route. X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectra were employed to characterize the samples. It was found that the amount of EDTA in the initial solution was responsible for crystal phase and shape determination. The effect of Eu3+ and Sm3+ doping concentrations on the luminescent intensity was also investigated in details. Furthermore, the up-conversion (UC) emissions have been observed in a series of Er3+/Yb3+ codoped NaLa(MoO4)(2) samples. Concentration dependent studies revealed that the optimal composition was realized for a 2% Er3+ and 10% Yb3+-doping concentration. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.