Ambergris Chemical Properties

Melting point:

~60°

Density 

0.8-0.92

FEMA 

2049 | AMBERGRIS TINCTURE

Odor

at 100.00 %. animal marine seashore

Odor Type

marine

EPA Substance Registry System

Ambergris (8038-65-1)

Ambergris Usage And Synthesis

Chemical Properties

Ambergris, also called ambra, is the pathological tissue resulting from the consumption of indigestible components by whales. It accumulates in the intestinal tract of the sperm or cachalot whale. It may become dislodged from the intestinal tract and is occasionally washed ashore (Somaliland, Mozambique, Java, Japan and Madagascar); more often it is found in whales taken in commercial hunts. Tissue ranges from 50 to 150 g in weight, although occasionally much larger pieces are found. Ambergris usually is distinguished commercially in four different qualities, depending on the color and physical appearance (i.e., as soft black amber, waxy ash-gray amber, gray amber or white amber). The latter two qualities are the most valued. The quality of ambergris may improve on aging and particularly when exposed to daylight and saltwater.
Ambergris tincture has a peculiar, sweet, extremely tenacious odor with a seaweed, moss-like undertone. Although ambergris is used mainly in perfumery, the tincture may be employed in the formulation of aromas to confer special bouquets to liqueurs, tobacco, fruit flavors and beverages, candy and ice cream flavors

Uses

Chiefly in perfumery as tincture and essence for fixing delicate odors.

Definition

A waxy, opaque mass containing 80% cholesterol formed in the intestinal tract of the sperm whale and found on beaches or afloat in the ocean.