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What Is Olive? | Première Peau

FRUITS, VEGETABLES AND NUTS  /  fruity · green · rich
Olive
Olive perfume ingredient
CategoryFRUITS, VEGETABLES AND NUTS
Subcategoryfruity · green · rich
Origin
VolatilityHeart Note
BotanicalOlea europaea L.
AppearancePale yellow to greenish yellow oily liquid
Producing CountriesGreece, Italy, Spain
PyramidHeart

Olive is a fruit known for its rich, green aroma and is frequently used in perfumery for its unique depth.

  1. Scent
  2. Terroir & Origins
  3. The Full Story
  4. Fun Fact
  5. Extraction & Chemistry
  6. In Perfumery
  7. See Also

Scent

The scent of olive is complex, starting with a green, slightly bitter aroma, like freshly crushed herbs and grass. It has a blend of earthiness and fruitiness that is both soothing and bracing. The initial impression can be likened to the scent of a sun-drenched orchard, rich with the essence of ripe olives and verdant foliage.

Scent Evolution

As it develops, olive reveals deeper, nutty undertones that lend a creamy texture to the fragrance. This evolution can evoke the sensation of rich olive oil, softening the initial sharpness and adding a rich feel. The heart of the scent can remind one of a Mediterranean landscape, where the air is filled with the warmth of sun-ripened fruits and aromatic herbs.

Signature Accords

After several hours, the olive aroma tends to settle into a mellow, almost woody scent. The green notes fade slightly, leaving behind a comforting base that recalls warm, sunlit earth. This lasting impression creates a sense of harmony and balance, characteristic of this popular fruit.

Evolution over time

Immediately

Immediately

After a few hours

After a few hours

After a few days

After a few days

Terroir & Post-Harvest Process

Indicative 2025 wholesale prices.

The Full Story

The olive, botanically known as Olea europaea, has a long history that intertwines with Mediterranean culture. This fruit is a staple in culinary practices worldwide and has also found its way into the realm of perfumery. Sourced primarily from the Mediterranean region, olives are harvested for their oil and aromatic properties, which contribute to the complexity of various fragrances.

Origin and Production

In perfumery, the essence of olive is derived from both the fruit and the leaves, each offering distinct olfactory characteristics. The extraction of olive oil, through pressing, yields a rich, fatty aroma that is an excellent fixative in scent compositions. The leaves, on the other hand, provide a fresher, herbal note that can brighten a fragrance and enhance its complexity.

Chemistry and Scent Profile

Olive's significance in perfumery lies in its ability to evoke warmth and earthiness, adding depth to compositions by grounding lighter floral and fruity notes . Its versatility makes it a cherished ingredient among perfumers, often featured in Mediterranean-inspired fragrances or those aiming to convey a sense of nature and tranquility.

Chemical Properties

Olive (CAS: 8001-25-0). Flash Point: 640.00 °F. TCC ( 337.78 °C. ). Specific Gravity: 0.91000 to 0.91500 @ 25.00 °C.

Did You Know?

Olives have been cultivated for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting their use dating back to at least 6000 BC.

Did You Know?

Did you know?
Olives have been cultivated for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting their use dating back to at least 6000 BC.

Extraction & Chemistry

Extraction method: Cold pressing for olive oil, steam distillation for leaf extracts

↑ See Terroir & Origins for origin-specific methods.

Molecular FormulaComplex mixture (no single formula)
CAS Number8001-25-0
Botanical NameOlea europaea L.
IFRA StatusNo known restrictions
SynonymsOlive oil, Olive leaf
Physical Properties
AppearancePale yellow to greenish yellow oily liquid
Flash Point640.00 °F. TCC ( 337.78 °C. )
Specific Gravity0.91000 to 0.91500 @ 25.00 °C.

In Perfumery

In perfumery, olive is both a heart and base note, depending on the formulation. Its rich, fatty quality makes it an excellent fixative, allowing lighter notes to linger longer on the skin. It works alongside citrus fruits, floral notes, and earthy elements, reinforcing the structure of the scent. Perfumers often utilize olive to create fragrances that evoke a sense of the Mediterranean, where the essence of nature is prominent. It can ground a composition while adding warmth, making it a valuable ingredient in niche perfumery.

See Also

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