In this work, we used the hydrothermal method to synthesize Eu3+ ion-doped cubic BaF2 nanorods, which is a luminescent material. The clubbed structures were well crystallized and exhibited face-centred cubic structures, as indicated by powder X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, electron diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. The luminescent properties were studied, and local symmetry surrounding Eu3+ ions and electronic transition processes included. The results indicated that Eu3+ occupied only one C-4, site in nanorods. (C) 2006 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.