It is associated with high-end perfumes and fragrances and has a history dating back to ancient Egypt.

Ambergris is one of the ingredients and aromas that have been around in perfumery since 2000 BCE. Originating from a sperm whale (and little information is available about how humans discovered it!), it continues to be popular in many perfumes and aftershaves to this day. 

Of course, for those who are new to the fine world of perfumery, it can seem like an expensive and somewhat pointless ingredient to seek in aromas. At LaBelle Perfumes, we know how desirable it is to many, as well as why, and here, we will walk you through these points and many more. 

What is Ambergris?

So, its origins are the sperm whale, but what is it?

Ambergris is a waxy substance that is produced in the digestive system of the sperm whale and is also rare. It is not a common feature of the digestion process, and forms when the whales' intestines become irritated, usually by foods like squid beaks. The digestive tract reacts by coating the irritant with layers of ambergris, which, over time, is expelled by the whale naturally. In some cases, this will happen when the whale dies, which leaves the ambergris to float in the ocean, where it can be collected.

What is its scent?

From that description, you may be thinking, "How can that smell nice?" Initially, it doesn't!

The scent of fresh ambergris is potent, and not in a good way, further posing the question of how humans came to use it in perfumes. As it ages, the smell changes from potent to sweet, with tobacco hints, ocean undertones, and even resembling an old wooden aroma. Some fans have even said that it bears a resemblance to sandalwood. 

Perfumes and longevity

Aside from how it came to be used in perfumes by the ancient Egyptians, you may be wondering why it was used, and why it is still used as a base in many perfumes today. 

Yes, it offers a gentle, earthy aroma, but there are some other properties that make ambergris a great addition to perfumes and colognes.

It's a Fixative

When you spray fragrance, one of the core issues is that it can evaporate quickly. Ambergris, due to its waxy nature, slows this down and prevents the scent of more volatile fragrances from fading. So, when it is used as a base, it adds longevity to the perfume, and as it evolves over time, it helps to prolong the fragrance too.

Enhances Other Notes

When it is paired with aromas that are floral, woody, or oriental, it helps to round them out, adding a richness to the original scent. It can help to amplify the fragrance of a smell, too, making certain notes bolder after application.

Natural Option

Many people have issues with some of the synthetic alternatives used to make perfumes last longer, typically due to sensitive skin. However, ambergris is a natural option that prolongs scent and offers a gentle base for perfume, rarely leading to rash or skin irritation.

Ambergris-Based Aromas at LaBelle Perfumes  

As experts in all things scent-related, at LaBelle Perfumes, we are proud to offer a range of aromas. 

Here is a top five list of the best ambergris perfumes and aromas, which we are sure you will like too.

Orientica Amber Rouge (5.0 oz EDP, unisex)

The ruby red bottle and casing are not the only striking things about this Orientica Amber Rouge unisex eau de parfum (EDP). 

This unisex scent starts with a top aroma of jasmine and saffron, before moving to the middle notes of amber wood and, of course, ambergris. 

As the scent fades, the lasting base notes of cedarwood and fir resin linger, as well as aromas of leather and white florals. It's potent, it's floral and spicy, and it has a strong presence to all who wear it. 

Shop Now!

Montale Dark Purple (3.4 oz EDP, unisex)

A beautifully layered composition, the Montale Dark Purple Eau de Parfum has a mysteriously sensual composition.

Its top note is an enchanting Moroccan rose, followed by heart notes of ambergris, saffron, and sandalwood. Its base notes of raspberry, vanilla, and white musk are enchanting and will last long after your initial spray. Floral, creamy, and musky all at once, this unisex spray offers wearers all-day longevity. 

Shop Now!

Al Haramain Amber Oud Ruby (3.3 oz EDP, unisex)

Having a gold colored bottle is not the only high-class thing about this eau de parfum for men and women. 

Al Haramain Amber has a fragrance that we would describe as rich and luxurious. With a top note of saffron and bitter almonds, and base notes of Egyptian jasmine cedarwood, there are some complex aromas when it is first sprayed, giving a unique scent.

As these fade, the base notes of ambergris and musk peek through, which may be paired with a slightly nutty, woody, or even powdery undertone. So, it's perfect for wearing to the boardroom or for a night on the town.

Shop Now!

Afnan Abstract Portrait (3.4 oz eau de Parfum, unisex)

Last but not least, we come to Afnan Abstract Portrait eau de Parfum, which is another popular unisex scent at LaBelle perfumes.

With layers of scents that include citrus and warm amber, this is one of our summer favourites. The top notes are woody, saffron, showcasing a pinch of citrus, giving this scent a strong opening kick. 

As that fades, there is an aromatic blend of orange, amber, and citrus peel, which has also been noted to have a floral scent. The base notes are spicy, and a mixture of ancient wood aromas, ambergris, and oakmoss, adding a simple but earthy finish that will last all day. Thanks to the ambergris, it has also been noted to have a marine scent, which makes it one of our more unique scent profiles.

Shop Now!

So, if you want to add an ambergris-based perfume to your collection, or you simply want to try something new that has a bit of a kick and lasts all day, we have everything you need at LaBelle Perfumes.