Aqua

Ambergris
Ambra grisea
Method of culture: Cruelty-free beach harvested
Part harvested: Intestinal secretion, regurgitated from the Sperm Whale
Properties: Sexual Power

Ambergris is produced by the Sperm whale; a spectacular marine mammal renowned for diving to extreme depths (3000 ft) to feed on giant squids and fish.

Ambergris is a solid substance that forms in the digestive system and is naturally regurgitated by the animal.  It matures by floating on oceanic currents sometimes for as long as 20 years.  Over time, contact with the sun and seawater transform the raw faecal lumps into the unique scent that has fascinated man since his origin.

The natural rarity of Ambergris and its precious properties have rendered it mythical.  For centuries, people the world over have been obsessed with its ancient cure-all and aphrodisiac properties.  In fact, ambergris, like other animal aromatic substances, contains pheromones and its leathery, marine odour acts directly on the hormonal system through olfactory stimulation, without any physical contact.

Due to its high price, Ambergris is rarely used any more in perfumery where it has been replaced by synthetic molecules.