Ambergris: The Mysterious Elixir of the Seas – Origin, Scent & Price

Ambergris, also known as ambergris or gray amber, is one of the most mysterious and precious ingredients in the world of perfumes. This unique natural product comes from the depths of the ocean and gives perfumes an unmistakable depth and durability. Along with oudh, tuberose, saffron, rose oil, it is one of the most expensive perfume oils.

The origin of Ambergris

• Production by sperm whales: Ambergris is produced in the digestive tract of sperm whales when they digest certain substances, such as squid. This natural process changes the composition of the substances and leads to the formation of ambergris.
• Maturation in the sea: after its formation, ambergris is excreted into the sea and often drifts on the oceans for years, maturing and developing its unique fragrance due to the action of salt water and sunlight.

Ambergris fragrance

Ambergris has a unique and complex fragrance that is difficult to describe. Its olfactory notes vary depending on the age and quality of the ambergris, but may include the following:

• Marin: A salty and fresh sea breeze note that recalls the origins of this ingredient.
• Sweet: Ambergris can contain subtle sweet notes that contrast interestingly with the salty freshness.
• Animal: Animal notes are present in some ambergris varieties, reminiscent of leather or musk.

Use of ambergris in perfumes

Ambergris is a sought-after ingredient in perfumery and is often used as a “fixative” that stabilizes fragrance molecules in perfume and prolongs their shelf life. It can play an important role in perfume composition, especially in oriental and woody fragrances. Some well-known perfumes that contain ambergris are:

• Chanel Cristalle: This fresh and floral fragrance from Chanel contains ambergris, which gives it a soft and long-lasting base.
• Dior Sauvage: A modern fragrance for men by Dior that combines the freshness of bergamot with warm woody notes and ambergris.
• Creed Aventus: This iconic men’s fragrance from Creed uses ambergris to create a distinctive and long-lasting signature.

Ambergris price

Ambergris is one of the most expensive ingredients in the perfume industry. Its price can vary greatly depending on the quality and origin of the ambergris. Legally sourced ambergris is rare and expensive due to environmental regulations and ethical concerns. Due to its rarity and the fact that it is often aged after many years in the sea, ambergris can reach prices of thousands of dollars per kilogram.

Ambergris: Depth of the Ocean

Ambergris is an exceptional ingredient in the world of perfumes, giving fragrances a unique depth and durability. Its origin from the depths of the sea and its fascinating maturation make Ambergris a mysterious treasure of nature. Although ambergris has a high price tag and is controversial in perfumery due to environmental regulations and ethical considerations, its contribution to the creation of distinctive and long-lasting fragrances remains undisputed.

The most expensive oils in perfumes!

Along with oudh, tuberose, saffron, rose oil it belongs to the:

• Most expensive perfume oils