The present invention provides a process for producing particles, such as oxide nanoparticles, in a substantially water-free environment. The process involves mixing at least one metal compound of the formula MX.sub.(m-n) with at least one surfactant and at least one solvent, wherein M is an electropositive element of Groups 1 15; each X is independently selected from the group consisting of O.sub.1/2, F, Cl, Br, I, OR, O.sub.2CR, NR.sub.2, and R; each R is independently a hydrocarbyl group; n is equal to 1/2 the oxidation state of the metal M in the product particle; and m is equal to the oxidation state of the element M. The components are typically combined to form a mixture which is thermally treated for a time period sufficient to convert the metal compound into particles of the corresponding oxide, having sizes in a range between about 0.5 nanometer and about 1000 nanometers. Examples of metal compounds employed in this process include materials such as Si(OR).sub.4, Ti(OR).sub.4 (where R is as described above), (Zr(OiPr).sub.2)(OAc).sub.2, and the like. Illustrative oxide materials which can be prepared by this process include TiO.sub.2, ZrO.sub.2, SiO.sub.2, and B.sub.2O.sub.3.