Trivalent terbium (Tb3+) doped double molybdate AGd(MoO4)(2)(A = Li+, Na+) phosphors have been synthesized by combustion reaction. The crystal structures and luminescent properties of the phosphors are investigated in this paper. The XRD patterns indicate that AGd(MoO4)(2):Tb3+ phosphors take on single phase when the precursors are sintered at 700 degrees C for 3 h. The average crystal size is about 2.0 mu m. LiGd(MoO4)(2):Tb3+ and NaGd(MoO4)(2):Tb3+ phosphors have the similar luminescent properties. The influences of urea and Tb3+ concentration on the luminescent properties of phosphor samples are also discussed in detail. The results show that Tb3+ activated LiGd(MoO4)(2) phosphors is a potential candidate for green phosphor in ultraviolet (UV)-based white LED. (C) 2012 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/2.046204jes] All rights reserved.