Jade East by Swank c1963

Jade East Cologne and Perfume has remained a favorite fragrance among American men and has become a classic fragrance for today's man.

"Worlds apart from the ordinary, the subtle of Jade East marks a man with distinction"

"This provocative scent captures the mood of the exotic East. Exhilarating elegance for men."

Jade East, one of the world's best selling men's colognes & after shaves,  was launched in 1963, by Swank Inc, in association with Regency.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral amber masculine fougère fragrance for men with a fresh, herbaceous and spicy top, a dry floral heart and a sweet, powdery, mossy base.

• Top notes: lavender, anise, bergamot, basil, lemon
• Middle notes: geranium, fern, carnation, heliotrope, cedar
• Base notes: oakmoss, vanilla, tonka bean, musk and amber

Scent Profile:

As you first inhale Jade East, the initial impression is vibrant and invigorating, dominated by the refreshing citrus blend of bergamot and lemon. The zesty, bright aroma of bergamot brings a tangy, slightly bitter edge, reminiscent of sunlit citrus groves. This is quickly joined by the crisp, clean scent of lemon, adding a sparkling, slightly sour undertone that sharpens the senses. Intertwined with these citrus notes is the aromatic essence of lavender, offering a soothing, herbaceous quality that tempers the sharpness of the citrus, creating a harmonious balance. The presence of basil introduces a fresh, green, and slightly spicy facet, adding complexity and depth to the fragrance's opening. Finally, a subtle hint of anise brings a sweet, licorice-like touch, while faint traces of orange blossoms weave through the top notes, lending a delicate floral sweetness that softens the composition.

As the initial burst of top notes begins to fade, the heart of Jade East reveals itself with a dry and elegant character. The middle notes are anchored by the woody aroma of cedar, which provides a sturdy and grounding base. Its dry, slightly resinous scent evokes the sensation of walking through a sun-dappled forest. This woodiness is complemented by the spicy floral scent of carnation, which adds a warm, peppery sweetness, enhancing the fragrance's complexity. The inclusion of geranium contributes a green, slightly minty nuance, bringing a crisp and invigorating freshness to the heart. Meanwhile, the delicate, almond-like aroma of heliotrope introduces a soft, powdery sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the more robust notes. The fern accord adds an earthy, forest-like quality, reminiscent of damp foliage, enriching the fragrance's natural and aromatic character.

As the scent settles, the base notes emerge, leaving a lasting impression that is both warm and comforting. The rich, earthy scent of oakmoss dominates the base, providing a deep, forest-like aroma that is both grounding and slightly damp. This mossy note is beautifully complemented by the creamy sweetness of vanilla, which adds a comforting warmth and smoothness to the composition. The inclusion of tonka bean enhances the sweet aspect with its nuanced aroma, combining notes of vanilla, almond, and a hint of spice, creating a cozy and enveloping effect. Musk adds a subtle, animalistic undertone, contributing to the fragrance's sensual and slightly powdery finish. Finally, the presence of amber lends a resinous, balsamic richness, infusing the base with a golden warmth that lingers on the skin, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and sophistication. The overall effect is a harmonious blend of sweet, powdery, and earthy notes, creating a scent that is both timeless and comforting.

The popularity of Jade East spawned two flankers, Jade East Golden Lime in 1966 and Jade East Coral in 1967.

Harper's Bazaar, 1967:

"The newcomer is Jade East Coral, described as an "island adventure." It's bold, brawny and outdoorsy — actually a light, flower-based fragrance that's very clean, very right for the man who's on the way up. "

Soap, Cosmetics, Chemical Specialties - Page 40, 1971:

"Jade East Golden Lime incorporates a sharp, fresh lime note that combines both lime juice and peel character."

By 1988, the two Jade East fragrances were discontinued much to the chagrin of men everywhere. In 2005 the original was resurrected in 2005 by Songo, along with another Swank favorite, Jade East Gold.

A new product called Jade East Musk was made "Jade East Musk Cologne Spray – the original from the 1950’s! Since its introduction to the marketplace in the 1950’s, Jade East has remained a favorite fragrance among American men and has become a classic fragrance for today’s man. Regency Cosmetics continues the Jade East tradition providing a choice of sizes for both cologne and aftershave as well as a Musk variety."

They even created a perfume for women who enjoyed wearing their loved ones Jade East. Called Jade Forever,

"Introducing the softer side of Jade East . . . Forever Jade . . . fresh citrus highlights mix with an exotic floral bouquet, fresh herbs and warm spice to create a softly-finished, contemporary fragrance that will be a fitting scent wherever your day takes you. Apply when your day begins and Forever Jade will wrap you in an aura of understated sophisticated fragrance through the end of your evening."

The Knight Distributing Company carries Jade East and their website describes it as:

Jade East – the original from the 1950’s!  

Since its introduction to the marketplace in the 1950’s, Jade East has remained a favorite fragrance among American men and has become a classic fragrance for today’s man. Regency Cosmetics continues the Jade East tradition providing a choice of sizes for both cologne and aftershave as well as a Musk variety. The latest addition of the 1.25 oz. size is the perfect size for travel, desk drawer, locker or glove compartment so your signature fragrance is always available. 

The original blending of citrus, herbal, and fragrant wood essences finished with a touch of musk and vanilla make Jade East a distinct fragrance that became an immediate favorite among teenagers and young men in the 1950’s and 1960’s who now have sons and grandsons carrying on the Jade East tradition. Whether purchased at the local drugstore, a BX, PX, department store or online, Jade East fragrance remains an American classic after all these years."