A synthetic method for generating pure carboxyethyl germanium sesquioxide in the absence of toxic impurities. In the method germanium dioxide and metallic germanium are not used as starting materials. The method involves steps which ensure (a) full reaction of germanium tetrachloride to ensure none is available to form germanium dioxide, (b) removal of any germanium dioxide, (c) removal of any germanium tetrachloride later produced from any germanium dioxide and (d) final removal of any germanium dioxide.