Fragrance Note
Ambergris
Used in 385+ fragrances on FragranVerse
What it smells like
Ambergris is a pathological concretion formed in the intestines of the sperm whale. The whale coats indigestible squid beaks in a cholesterol-rich secretion that solidifies over time. Freshly expelled, it is black, soft, and strongly fecal. After years of floating in salt water and UV exposure, oxidation transforms it into pale grey or white ambergris: hard, waxy, and dry, with a characteristic amber-marine scent. The chemistry hinges on ambrein, which degrades into ambroxide. The compound responsible for this scent.
How it's used in perfumery
Ambroxide functions as a base-note fixative and radiance amplifier. Its molecular weight ensures slow evaporation, while its low odor threshold means trace amounts can alter an entire composition. It extends volatile top notes, enhances sillage, and imparts skin-adjacent warmth. In amber accords, it provides dry, mineral depth without heaviness. In fresh-woody compositions, it adds projection and warmth without sweetness. It blends particularly well with musks, woody-ambers, and labdanum absolutes.
Fun fact
The largest piece of ambergris on record weighed approximately 455 kg. Retrieved by Norwegian whalers in 1908, it reportedly saved the whaling company from bankruptcy.
Perfumes with Ambergris(80 of 385)
Middle East
(26)
Designer
(7)Niche
(47)