Solid complexes of rare earth nitrates and picrates with a new aryl amide podand, 1,4-bis{[(2'-benzylamino-formyl)phenoxyl]methyl}-naphthaline (L) were synthesized. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, IR and molar conductivity measurements. At the same time, the fluorescent properties of the Eu(III) and Tb(III) nitrates and picrates complexes in solid state were also investigated. Under the excitation, these complexes exhibited characteristic emissions of europium and terbium ions. The counter anion factor influencing the fluorescent intensity was also discussed.