Crown Jewel by Prince Matchabelli c1946

In 1946, Crown Jewel by Prince Matchabelli emerged onto the perfumery scene, marking a significant moment for the brand post-World War II. This period was characterized by a resurgence in luxury and glamour after the austerity of war years, making it an opportune time for a new fragrance launch. Perfumery itself was undergoing a renaissance, with iconic fragrances becoming associated with both personal luxury and societal status.

Prince Matchabelli's choice of the name "Crown Jewel" for this perfume carries multiple layers of significance. Firstly, it aligns with the brand's royal associations—Prince Matchabelli himself was a Georgian prince, and by naming a fragrance "Crown Jewel," he evoked notions of regal elegance and exclusivity. The term "Crown Jewel" is traditionally used to denote the most precious and valuable item in a collection, often associated with royalty and dynastic heritage. By applying this name to a perfume, Matchabelli positioned his creation as a pinnacle of luxury and refinement, appealing to those who sought to embody sophistication and opulence.

The name "Crown Jewel" would resonate deeply with consumers who aspired to a sense of royalty and elegance in their personal lives. It would evoke images of ornate crowns adorned with rare gems, sumptuous courtly settings, and the allure of precious treasures. Those who wore the perfume would likely feel a sense of elevated status and sophistication, akin to wearing a coveted jewel that enhances their aura of glamour and allure.

In essence, Crown Jewel by Prince Matchabelli embodied more than just a perfume; it encapsulated a vision of luxury, elegance, and timeless allure. Its name and marketing strategy were crafted to resonate with an audience seeking to adorn themselves with nothing less than a "crown jewel" of fragrance, symbolizing both personal indulgence and cultural sophistication.

Princess Norina by Prince Matchabelli c1928

In 1928, Prince Georges Matchabelli unveiled "Princess Norina," a perfume born from his deep affection and admiration for his wife, Norina. The context of this time period was marked by a fascination with romance and elegance, reflecting the enduring allure of royalty and aristocracy in society. It was an era when fragrances were not merely scents but also expressions of personal stories and aspirations.

Prince Matchabelli's choice of the name "Princess Norina" for the perfume was deeply personal and symbolic. By naming the fragrance after his wife, he sought to immortalize her grace, beauty, and perhaps the regal qualities he admired in her. "Princess Norina" evokes an image of refinement, sophistication, and a touch of fairy-tale allure, appealing to those who appreciated romance and glamour.

For consumers of the time, the name "Princess Norina" would have resonated with notions of aristocratic elegance and romantic ideals. It would likely have attracted those who sought to embody or admire the qualities associated with royalty – elegance, poise, and a hint of mystery. The perfume itself would have been perceived as a tribute to enduring love and refined taste, appealing to those who appreciated luxurious fragrances with a narrative behind them.

The name "Princess Norina" conjures images of grandeur, courtly elegance, and the timeless allure of royalty. It suggests a fragrance that is both delicate and commanding, evoking feelings of admiration, romance, and sophistication. Those who encountered "Princess Norina" would have likely been captivated by its romantic narrative and the promise of experiencing a scent that embodies the essence of a beloved princess – graceful, enchanting, and eternally captivating.

Ave Maria by Prince Matchabelli c1929

Launched in 1929, Ave Maria by Prince Matchabelli carries with it a deeply personal and spiritual significance. The name "Ave Maria," Latin for "Hail Mary," is a reference to the Catholic prayer that honors the Virgin Mary. This prayer has long been associated with themes of purity, reverence, and divine grace, evoking images of serene devotion and spiritual reflection. In naming the perfume Ave Maria, Prince Matchabelli intended to capture these very qualities—offering a fragrance that would resonate with the sacred and the sublime.

The inspiration behind Ave Maria was the performance of Princess Norina Matchabelli, the prince's wife, in the role of Madonna in Max Reinhardt's production of "The Miracle." Georges Matchabelli created the perfume as a tribute to her, translating her inspiring portrayal into a scent that mirrors the reverence and beauty of her performance. In this context, Ave Maria can be seen as more than just a perfume; it is a fragrant homage to the sanctity and grace embodied by the Madonna, as interpreted by Norina.

The word "Ave Maria" conjures a sense of calm, serenity, and an almost ethereal beauty. The name evokes images of candlelit cathedrals, the soft glow of stained glass windows, and the gentle sound of a choir singing in harmony. As a perfume, Ave Maria would be interpreted as a fragrance of quiet elegance and deep emotional resonance—something that transcends mere fashion to touch on the sacred and the timeless. For women of the time, a perfume called Ave Maria would have likely carried an air of refinement and spiritual depth, appealing to those who sought a fragrance that was both worldly and mystical.

Incanto by Simonetta c1955

Incanto by Simonetta: launched in 1955. Perfume created by Simonetta Visconti (Donna Simonetta Fabiani), an Italian fashion designer.

Collecting Blue Glass Commercial Perfume Bottles

In this guide, I will introduce you to the wonderful world of commercial perfume bottles made up of blue glass. The allure of these bottles lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in the history and craftsmanship behind them. Most of the bottles in this guide date to the 1920s and 1930s period.

Starting a collection with a specific focus, such as blue glass perfume bottles, can add a unique dimension to your hobby. It provides a clear direction and allows you to curate a cohesive and visually stunning collection.

When embarking on this journey, consider exploring various sources such as antique shops, flea markets, online auctions, and specialized collector forums. You may encounter a diverse range of designs, from simple and utilitarian to ornate and intricately decorated bottles.

It's essential to educate yourself about the different styles, manufacturers, and historical context surrounding these bottles. This knowledge will not only enhance your appreciation for the pieces you acquire but also help you make informed decisions when assessing their value and authenticity.

As your collection grows, documenting each acquisition with details such as the maker, design characteristics, and acquisition date can enrich your understanding of the evolving trends in perfume bottle design and production.

Additionally, connecting with fellow collectors can be a rewarding aspect of the hobby. Exchanging insights, sharing discoveries, and participating in community events or exhibitions can deepen your engagement with the subject and foster meaningful connections with like-minded enthusiasts.

Remember, collecting is as much about the joy of discovery and appreciation as it is about the tangible objects themselves. So, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of blue glass perfume bottles, and let your collection reflect your passion and individual style!

Dolores Del Rio and Her Perfume Collection

Dolores Del Rio and her beautiful perfume collection.

In this photo I spy:

• Lerys 6 bottle presentation in bronze caddy
• Parfum des Champs Elysées/À Travers Champs/Guerlinade or Candide Effluve by Guerlain
• Jungla by Myrurgia c1933
• unknown early Elizabeth Arden
• Secret de la Perle by Pleville c1926
• two Prince Matchabelli bottles
• La Jacee by Coty
• Sans Adieu by Worth c1929 (Lalique bottle)
• Les Lys by D'Orsay c1922 (Lalique bottle)
• Hattie Carnegie c1925 (Depinoix bottle)
• Lentheric (Baccarat bottle)
• Elizabeth Arden
• She is holding an early Lancome bottle, possibly for Kypre or Bocages

I cannot make out all of the bottles, nor can I make out labels, but if you can, please comment below. 

Cachet by Prince Matchabelli c1970

Cachet by Prince Matchabelli: launched in 1970.

In a 1970s introductory ad, Prince Matchabelli claimed that the "Fragrance is as individual as you are. Fascinating Cachet reacts to your body chemistry to make this delightful."  Another ad read "Besides being fresh and fascinating, Cachet is designed to pick up and play up every girl's own very special chemistry."