Abstract PbE (E=S, Se and Te) nanoparticles stabilized by anacardic acid in the shape of spheres and cubes have been synthesized employing a simple solution based thermolysis route at moderate reaction temperatures. The route adheres to some of the principles of ‘green’ chemistry since a naturally occurring capping ligand, anacardic acid, is employed at a relatively low temperature. The lead sources were varied to study their effect on the morphology of the lead chalcogenide particles.