Abstract: An luminescent composition comprises a mixture of two or more materials, emitting electromagnetic radiation when subject to stimuli, wherein the spectral emission is not calculable at a first approximation as the simple weighted sum of the spectral emissions of the materials independently subject to said stimuli. Especially advantageous compositions are achieved if the anionic matrix is an oxide and the doping anionic salt is a fluoride or vice versa.

Abstract: The phosphorescent compounds of the invention have a matrix with the general formula M2SiO4 wherein M represents an alkaline earth such as barium, strontium or calcium, and the matrix is doped with europium and co-doped with at least one other lanthanide such as praseodymium, samarium, dysprosium or holmium. In accordance with a method embodiment, the dopant compounds are introduced into the matrix in the form of fluorides by calcination in a reducing atmosphere. The invention may be applied in the field of horology.

Abstract: An electric discharge lamp comprises a case with a transparent wall wherein the inner surface is coated with a luminescent material layer. The luminscent material is at least partially made up of a luminescent compound of general formula: Ba7-x-y Mx Euy F12 Xu Yv. In this formula, M is selected among calcium, magnesium, strontium and zinc; X and Y each represent an element selected among chlorine and bromine; x, u, and v range between 0 and 2, with u+v=2; and y ranges between 0.00001 and 2. The luminescent compound has high values of light output intensity, in the spectrum visible part, for excitation wavelengths higher than 300 nanometers. Thus it is possible to use an excitation radiation less actinic than in the case of discharge lamps of prior art, while avoiding the presence of mercury in the atmosphere contained in the case. The invention, therefore, makes it possible to decrease the dangerous physiological effects on living beings and to eliminate risk of mercury pollution.