A series of solid solution phosphors Ca1-xSrxSe:0.02Ce(3+) were prepared using high-temperature solid-state reaction technique. Their diffuse reflectance and luminescent spectra at room temperature were investigated and discussed. The optical band gap E-g energies of CaSe and SrSe were derived. Because of its broad band absorption in the range of 400-500 nm, Ca1-xSrxSe:Ce3+ can suit the application requirements for GaN-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The emission wavelength and the coordinates systematic shift from yellowish green to bluish green with an increase in x of Ca1-xSrxSe:Ce3+. Using Dorenbos's empirical equation, the values of energies of the lowest f-d transition absorption E, redshift D and Stokes shift Delta S for Eu2+ in the same host were predicted. The results were in good agreement with the experimental data. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.