A simple, convenient approach to III-V semiconducting nanocrystallites is described - the solvothermal method. Similar to the hydrothermal method, except that organic solvents are used instead of water, this method is reported to effectively prevent oxidation of the products. Materials such as 12 nm InP, 32 nm GaN, and 12 nm InAs can be prepared via this method, resulting in crystalline materials that do not need post-treatment at high temperatures. In addition, organometallic precursors are not required.