CaS and SrS nanocrystallites have been successfully synthesized via a solvothermal route by the reaction between XCl2 (X = Ca, Sr) and sulfur at relatively lower temperature for the first time. XS (X = Ca, Sr) nanocrystallites are efficient emission luminescence in comparison with that of bulk materials at room temperature. The emitted light of CaS and SrS nanocrystallites is yellow-green and blue, respectively. (C) 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.