Derivatives of calcitriol with two equal side chains emanating at C‐20, also known as gemini, have emerged as interesting compounds, either as instruments for assessing the steric requirements of the vitamin D receptor or as drug candidates. We now describe the syntheses of gemini analogs where the two side chains differ from each other. While retaining the 2‐hydroxy‐2‐methylpentyl moiety, common to both calcitriol and gemini, as one chain, we replaced the other with a 1,1,1‐trifluoro‐2‐hydroxy‐2‐(trifluoromethyl)‐3‐pentynyl group. The features comprising this chain modification are commonly regarded to improve toxicity profiles and drug performance. The resulting epimeric pairs with a new stereogenic center at C‐20 were resolved and the absolute configurations assigned. The side‐chain desymmetrization protocols described herein serve as a basis for additional synthesis activity in this area. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)