Ba-3(VO4)(2) and Nd3+:Ba-3(VO4)(2) crystals were grown successfully by the Czochralski technique. X-ray powder diffraction and transmission spectrum of Ba-3(VO4)(2) crystal were measured at room temperature. Spontaneous Raman scattering spectra of Ba-3(VO4)(2) and SrWO4 crystals were presented, and both larger integral Raman scattering cross-section and stronger peak line intensity were observed in Ba-3(VO4)(2) crystal. In addition, polarized absorption spectra of Nd3+:Ba-3(VO4)(2) crystal were measured at room temperature. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.