A new analytical method using 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol modified $SiO_2$ nanoparticles as solid-phase extractant has been developed for the preconcentration of trace amounts of mercury(II) in different water samples. Conditions of the analysis such as preconcentration time, effect of pH, sample volumes, shaking time, elution conditions and effects of interfering ions for the recovery of analyte were investigated. The adsorption capacity of nanometer $SiO_2$-PAN was found to be 260 ${mu}molg^{-1}$ at optimum pH and the detection limit (3$sigma$) was 0.48 ${mu}gL^{-1}$. The extractant showed rapid kinetic sorption. The adsorption equilibrium of mercury(II) on nanometer $SiO_2$-PAN was achieved just in 5 mins. Adsorbed mercury(II) was easily eluted with 5 mL of 6 M hydrochloric acid. The maximum preconcentration factor was 50. The method was applied for the determination of trace amounts of mercury(II) in various water samples and industrial effluents.