Zn precursor synthesized from Zn(ClO4)(2) Solution was used as nucleation seeds for the growth of Zn polygon prismatic nanocrystals on silicon via a thermal vapor transport at low temperatures of 150-400degreesC (substrate) in Ar atmosphere. Depending on different reaction temperature and atmosphere, Zn-ZnO core-shell polygon prismatic nanocrystals with a dimension from nanometer to micrometer can be developed as evidenced from high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and auger nanoprobe electron spectroscopy analysis. The Zn-ZnO polygon prismatic structure shows weak UV emission and strong deep-level emission. However, photoluminescence properties and crystallization of Zn-ZnO prismatic nanocrystals could be improved by suitable post-treatment. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.