A series of Ce~(3+), Sm~(3+)-doped Zn_2GeO_4 phosphors are prepared by the solid-state reaction. A blue photoluminescence(PL) of Zn_2 GeO_4 is observed as the recombination of the electrons trapped on V·_O and Zn·_i with holes trapped on V_(Ge)and V’ _(Zn). The energy transfer process between Ce~(3+)and Sm~(3+) is confirmed by the PL spectra and decay curves, and the emission colors can be adjusted from blue to orange–red. Furthermore, we verify unambiguously that the energy transfer from Ce~(3+) to Sm~(3+) occurs. Besides, Ce~(3+) ions can act as a bridge,possibly promoting the energy transfer from the Zn_2GeO_4 host matrix to Sm~(3+) ions. A series of Ce ~ (3+), Sm ~ (3 +) - doped Zn_2GeO_4 phosphors are prepared by the solid-state reaction. A blue photoluminescence (PL) of Zn_2 GeO_4 is observed as the recombination of the electrons trapped on V · _O and Zn · _i with trapped on V_ (Ge) and V ’_ (Zn). The energy transfer process between Ce ~ (3+) and Sm ~ (3+) is confirmed by PL spectra and decay curves, and The emission colors can be adjusted from blue to orange-red. Furthermore, we verify unambiguously that the energy transfer from Ce ~ (3+) to Sm ~ (3+) occurs. a bridge, possibly promoting the energy transfer from the Zn_2GeO_4 host matrix to Sm ~ (3+) ions.