Linear Zn(II)–Ce(III)–Zn(II) complex, which involves only one 4f electron as a spin source, behaves as an SMM. Easy-axis magnetic anisotropy for the ground ²F_5/2 state of Ce(III) was achieved by a uni-axial crystal field, which is formed with four phenoxo oxygens as axial donors with the other five oxygens as equatorial donors.

An assemblage of a Tb(III) ion and two mononuclear [Zn^II(L)] complexes as antenna chromophores (H₂L: Schiff base ligand) afforded a luminescent single-molecule magnet. The f–f emission spectrum had partially resolved fine structure which provides detailed information on the magnetic anisotropy of the ⁷F₆ ground multiplet of the Tb(III) ion.