Nanocrystal blue luminescent material GdVO4 was synthesized by a citrate-gel (CG) method. Through fluorescence spectra, XRD and SEM, the author made a comprehensive analysis of the crystal structure, particle size, morphology and luminescence properties of Yb-doped GdVO4:Tm. The results show that the particle size of Yb-doped GdVO4:Tm is about 80 nm. Excited by 260~310 nm ultraviolet radiation, the Yb-doped GdVO4:Tm can emits bright blue fluorescence, and has the optimal properties when Yb3+ concentration at 1 mol%