Fragrances can be classified by certain olfactive families, or themes, or accords. In this guide I will briefly discuss the various themes.
Ambery Fragrances, formerly known as Oriental:
Ambery Fragrances, formerly known as Oriental:
Amber fragrances, once known as Oriental fragrances, evoke a sense of warmth, opulence, and sensuality. The term "Amber" has replaced the former descriptor, reflecting a more inclusive and respectful approach to fragrance categorization. These perfumes are known for their rich, intense, and heady qualities, often featuring an array of balsams, resins, and woody notes that blend harmoniously to create an intoxicating, long-lasting experience.
At the heart of the Amber family lies the deep, resinous warmth of balsams and resins. When you smell Peru balsam, you encounter a rich, syrupy sweetness with a slight touch of spice. Its smooth, vanilla-like aroma has an earthy depth that feels both comforting and enveloping. Tolu balsam offers a similar yet more intense resinous quality, with a dark, slightly smoky sweetness that adds complexity to the fragrance. These balsamic notes are often paired with other resins like myrrh and benzoin, which have a more medicinal, incense-like fragrance. Myrrh has a smoky, slightly bitter quality, evoking the aroma of ancient, sacred rituals, while benzoin provides a warm, vanilla-like sweetness that brings richness and longevity to the composition. The combination of these resins serves as a fixative, ensuring that the fragrance lasts for hours, sometimes even days, on the skin.
