High-quality oil-soluble Au:ZnCdS/ZnS QDs were prepared for the first time.
The highly active HAuCl4 is prevented to decompose by using 1-dodecanethiol.
The highest PL QY of Au:ZnCdS/ZnS QDs can achieve 42% by overcoating ZnS layer.
The PL QY of QDs can be significantly enhanced by Au+, In3+-codoping.