civet
Animalic Family
A potent and distinctive animalic note with a deep, musky aroma.
Intensity
very strong
Longevity
very long
Popularity
3 fragrances
Family
Animalic
Olfactory Profile
animalic
earthy
spicy
sweet
fresh
About civet
Civet is a highly valued animalic note in perfumery, known for its intense, musky scent that is derived from the secretions of the civet animal. Traditionally, these secretions were obtained from the African civet cat to be used in high-end fragrances. The note is celebrated for its unparalleled depth and complexity, adding warmth, sensuality, and longevity to fragrances. Its use has been a hallmark of luxury perfumery for centuries, though ethical concerns have led to the rise of synthetic alternatives in modern formulations.
Natural Sources
- •African Civet (Civettictis civetta)
Synthetic Alternatives
Due to ethical concerns, synthetic equivalents of civet are widely used in perfumery today. These alternatives aim to replicate the complex, musky aroma of natural civet without the use of animal products, providing a cruelty-free option for fragrance creation.
Perfumer's Tips
Use sparingly due to its high intensity and to maintain ethical standards. Civet is best used as a base note to anchor lighter notes and add depth to a fragrance. Synthetic civet is preferred for ethical reasons.