Preparation and spectral properties of Nd3Â +-doped transparent glass ceramic containing Ca5(PO4)3F nanocrystals

► Existence of Nd:Ca5(PO4)3F nanocrystals was demonstrated by low temperature spectra. ► Nd3 + concentration in Ca5(PO4)3F nanocrystals was estimated from absorption spectra. ► The glass ceramic is potentially applicable as the 1.06 μm laser material.