Saffron in perfumery
Written on 1 February 2024
As February dawns and the winter frost begins to melt, lovely crocus flowers let us know spring is on its way. This little flower, although quite precious, cannot be used in perfumery. This is quite surprising given that its close relative, the Crocus Sativus, which blossoms only in autumn and is impossible to find in the wild, provides us with one of the most delightful fragrances used in perfumery: noble saffron.
This little purple flower must be hand-picked while its petals are still closed. Then, from each flower, its three precious red pistils are plucked and dried.
Harvesting and production must all be done by hand, which explains the high price of this fabulous spice, which has brought joy and flavor to the Mediterranean region for centuries. Saffron is the subject of many legends – apparently, Cleopatra used to add it to her bath to bring a reddish hue to her skin. It is also a symbol of the resurrection of in Greece.
Iran is the number one producer of this special spice – it is also grown in India and Spain.
In the modern day perfumery industry, natural saffron is not permitted due to the allergenic qualities of Safrol. Thankfully, a synthetic molecule has been developed to allow perfumers to continue using this special note, with its leather and honey tones, in modern day creations.
It’s intensity and long-lasting quality classifies Saffron as a base note – it marries well with wood tones like Oud, as well as powdery notes like iris and violet. It’s spiciness pairs well with cinnamon and pepper, and can warm up hesperidin head notes like bergamot.
Saffron is extremely versatile and works well with many different fragrances. In our Sensuel Safran from la Collection Privée, we chose to accentuate its mysterious allure by pairing it with amber and sandalwood. The result is a warm, envelopping fragrance that is supremely alluring.
If you would like to add a hint of luxury to the atmosphere of your interiors, check out « safran boisé » from our ambiance fragrance collection. Whether in the form of a candle, diffuser or spray for an immediate burst of fragrance, your guests are sure to appreciate the warm hint of saffron in your home.
See also
Celebrating 10 years of «Napoléon 1815»
Written on 12 March 2025
March 2025 marks a special moment for the history of France – it marks the landing of Napoleon Bonaparte on his return from the Island of Elba in 1815. To commemorate the date, celebrations are organized in Vallauris and Golfe-Juan. Re-enactments in traditional costume, conferences, shows… the program is rich with cultural meaning and attracts […]
Interview: career portrait of Esther, Tour Guide-Saleswoman at Galimard
Written on 11 February 2025
No matter how you first discovered Maison Galimard—whether through a visit to one of our locations, a perfume creation workshop, or an online purchase—you know that behind every service is a passionate and motivated team that loves sharing its enthusiasm for perfumes and their derivatives. Whether in person in Grasse or Èze-Village, over the phone, […]
Ruby Chéri, the journey from perfume to macaron : a sweet dream turned reality.
Written on 2 January 2025
The beginning of the year marks the end of the holiday season – after a delightful respite of time spent with family, good food, and good fun, we start the year full of hope, and with a list of resolutions for the new year. For us at Galimard, January is time for inventory. Not just […]