Warm, powdery, and texturally soft. The immediate impression is a velvety smoothness -- musky and woody simultaneously, with faint spicy-coniferous undertones. Drier than musk, softer than cedar, warmer than iris. The drydown reveals a clean, comfortable warmth that clings to skin like the memory of a cashmere blanket. Nothing else in the perfumer's palette quite replicates this texture.
Cashmeran (CAS 33704-61-9), also known as DPMI (6,7-dihydro-1,1,2,3,3-pentamethyl-4(5H)-indanone), is an a major aroma-chemical supplier synthetic molecule developed in 1970 that occupies a unique space between wood, musk, and amber. Its polycyclic ketone structure produces a warm, diffusive, velvety scent that defies clean categorization -- simultaneously musky, woody, spicy, and powdery.
The molecule (C14H22O, MW 206.2) does not exist in nature. Its scent is often described as 'the smell of cashmere fabric' -- a warm, textured softness with coniferous and slightly spicy undertones. This unique profile has made it a common synthetics in contemporary use.
Cashmeran is subject to IFRA concentration restrictions under Amendment 49 (2020), with maximum levels varying by product category from 0.0063% in lip products to 9.4% in non-skin-contact products. Despite restrictions, its importance in fragrance formulation remains immense, with typical use levels of traces to 2%.
Cashmeran was developed by a major aroma-chemical supplier in 1970 but did not achieve widespread use until the 1990s, when perfumers discovered its extraordinary ability to make any composition feel 'expensive' and textured at even trace doses.
Extraction & Chemistry
Extraction method: Fully synthetic. Produced by a major aroma-chemical supplier via synthesis of the pentamethylindanone framework. Not found in nature. Clear liquid.
N/A — likely refers to a synthetic woody-amber molecule or Kashmir-inspired accord
IFRA Status
No known restrictions
Synonyms
Kashmir wood, Cashmere wood
Physical Properties
Odor Strength
Medium
Appearance
Pale yellow to amber viscous liquid
In Perfumery
Cashmeran functions as a heart-to-base bridging note, connecting musk and wood accords with notable smoothness. It is used as a fixative, a blender, and a comfort-inducing modifier in woody, spicy, coniferous, and amber compositions. At trace levels, it contributes warmth and roundness; at higher doses, it becomes the dominant textural signature. Critical ingredient in cashmere-musk accords, modern woods, and 'comfort' fragrances.