The History Of Parfum

The Birth of Perfume:

The story of perfume dates back to ancient civilizations, where fragrant substances like myrrh and frankincense were used for religious ceremonies. However, it was in Grasse during the 17th century that perfume as we know it today began to take shape. Grasse, known for its fields of jasmine, rose, and lavender, became a hub for the perfume industry due to its favorable climate and fertile soil.

Layers of a Perfume:

Creating a perfume is an art that involves carefully blending multiple layers of scents, known as notes. Perfumes are composed of three main notes: top, middle, and base.

1. Top Notes: These are the initial scents that you experience when you apply a perfume. They are light, fresh, and fleeting. Common top notes include citrus fruits, bergamot, and light floral scents.

2. Middle Notes: Also known as the heart notes, these scents emerge after the top notes fade away. Middle notes form the core of the fragrance and often include floral, fruity, or spicy elements.

3. Base Notes: The foundation of the perfume, base notes provide depth and longevity. Ingredients like musk, vanilla, and woody scents are commonly found in the base, anchoring the fragrance and ensuring it lingers throughout the day.

Grasse and its Floral Heritage:

Grasse's unique climate and soil composition make it an ideal location for cultivating fragrant flowers. Jasmine, rose, and lavender fields paint the landscape, and local artisans have perfected the art of extracting essential oils from these blossoms. The Grasse region is renowned for producing some of the finest raw materials used in perfumery.

Eau de Toilette vs. Parfum:

The terms "Eau de Toilette" and "Parfum" refer to the concentration of fragrance oils in a perfume.

1. Eau de Toilette (EDT): EDT contains a lower concentration of fragrance oils (typically 5-15%), making it lighter and more suitable for daily wear. It is a popular choice for warm weather or casual occasions, offering a subtle and refreshing scent.

2. Parfum: Parfum, also known as perfume extract, has a higher concentration of fragrance oils (usually 15-30%). This results in a more potent and long-lasting scent, making it ideal for special occasions or evening wear. Parfum is often pricier due to its higher concentration of essential oils.

While I was in Grasse, I got to make my own parfum at Galimard's. In total there were 9 essential oils I used to create my mix of low, medium, and high notes.. This process can be seen down below.