Notes Atlas/Gurjan balsam
Woody · 87 fragrances
Gurjan balsam.
87
Fragrances
2006
Earliest use in catalog
heart
Typical position · 55%
Woody
Reads as
Deep and resinous, Gurjan balsam anchors woody compositions with an earthy warmth that resonates through layers of scent.
Profile
What it reads as.
Share of gurjan balsam-bearing fragrances carrying each accord.
Where to wear it
The fragrances that wear it best.
The Story
Gurjan balsam in perfumery.
Gurjan balsam, extracted from the bark of Alstonia scholaris trees native to Southeast Asia, imparts a rich, smoky aroma reminiscent of incense and aged wood. Its deep notes evoke the dense undergrowth of tropical forests, where its resinous essence has been cherished for centuries.
In perfumery, Gurjan balsam serves as a foundational note, providing depth and complexity to woody accords. Often paired with patchouli, sandalwood, saffron, amber, cedar, and agarwood (oud), it enriches these compositions with its earthy, slightly spicy undertones, creating a robust yet nuanced olfactory experience.
Today, Gurjan balsam can be found in notable fragrances like Black Afgano by Nasomatto and Sartorial by Penhaligon's. These scents highlight the note’s ability to blend seamlessly into warm, woody compositions that are both fresh and spicy, making it a key ingredient for perfumers seeking to evoke rich, natural textures.