A ZnS/CdS/ZnS quantum dot quantum well was prepared in AOT micelles successfully and was characterized by absorption spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy. Luminescence in the region of 350-600 nm was observed. The complete ZnS shell might reduce the number of defects on the surface of the US well, which were assumed to act as centers for radiationless recombination, resulting in the luminescence enhancement. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.