The relationship between CVD ZnSe material characteristics and turning surface characteristics was studied in this paper. By using metallographic microscope, scanning electron microscope, X-ray energy spectrometer and 3D surface profiler, the raw material's section and turning surface of CVD ZnSe were observed; the origin of little flaws and annular patterns on turning surface was analyzed. The results show: the defects of CVD ZnSe raw material cause the turning surface defects, some become little pits and some are filled up by chips directly; the polycrystalline structure of CVD ZnSe causes the annular patterns on turning surface, the annular patterns caused by polycrystalline structure of CVD ZnSe can be eliminated by setting appropriate cutting parameters and tool parameters, and the Ra value of smooth turning surface roughness without annular patterns can be under 3nm. The paper establishes the technical foundations for further explore of the turning surface quality control methods.