Hexagonal nanosized silver sulfide (Ag2S) was synthesized by reaction between sulfur and silver nitrate (AgNO3) in the presence of PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone) at room temperature. The side length of as-prepared Ag2S is about 100-120 nm. The possible reaction steps and the role of PVP are analysed. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the obtained product. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.