A quantum dot-based color display includes a backlight unit with a light source and light source distribution layer and a photo down-conversion light emissive layer. The photo down-conversion layer has populations of light-emitting Group II-VI core-shell structure quantum dots, the core having an excess amount of a Group II component in a ratio to a Group VI component of approximately 6:1 or greater. The quantum dots include an organic fraction of approximately 20 weight percent to approximately 45 weight percent, the organic fraction including ligands bound to quantum dot surfaces in an as-deposited state and including one or more long-chain fatty acids. Non-barrier polymer films are positioned on either side of the photo down conversion light emissive layer which exhibits photo stability at a light intensity of at least 4000 W/m2. A display panel cooperates with the back light unit to form the display.