Red light emitting Sr0.91Mg2Al5.82Si9.18O30:Eu3+ (SMAS: Eu3+) nanophosphors were synthesized by a facile solution-combustion method. The optimal firing temperature and time for obtaining a pure phase of the SMAS host lattice was found to be 1000 degrees C for 3 h. The structural, morphological, thermal stability and luminescent properties of the nanophosphors were investigated as a function of calcining temperature and by varying the Eu3+ ion concentration. Powder XRD patterns confirmed the hexagonal crystal system. The photoluminescence (PL) of the 0.5 mol% Eu3+ doped SMAS exhibited strong and intense red emission (612 nm) corresponding to the D-5(0) -> F-7(J) transition which resulted from the occupation of Eu3+ ions in the SMAS host lattice sites. Based on the dominant red (D-5(0) -> F-7(2)) emission intensity under 394 nm ultra-violet excitation, these nano-luminescent powders are expected to find potential applications in the production of red light for phosphor converted white light emitting diodes and optical display systems. (C) 2019 Published by Elsevier B.V.