Mn2+ doped ZnS nanocrystals were synthesized via aqueous solution precipitation method. The crystal structure of these nanocrystals is found to be cubic. The particle size of as prepared ZnS and (ZnS) Mn2+ was found in between the range of 4-6 nm. The optical and photoluminescence studies of Zn1-xMnxS (x= 0-5%) have also been performed at room temperature. The absorption and emission intensities were found to be increased on increasing Mn2+ concentration (0-5 atom%). The Mn doped ZnS nanocrystals result blue shifted. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.