From nanorods to nanostars: Tuning the optical properties of gold nanoparticles

► The synthesis routes for gold nanorods and nanostars are summarized and compared. ► The type of seed particles, combined with reactant concentration is relevant for final shape. ► Shape and size of the nanoparticles can be tuned individually. ► The plasmon resonance can be tuned from the visible into the near-infrared by varying the shape.