Did you know that the price for 1 liter of sandalwood oil costs between $3,000 to $8,000 USD! A precious ingredient in perfumery, sandalwood’s olfactory profile is described as warm, woody and luxurious, with a distinct creamy-sweet quality. What is it that’s so special about sandalwood oil? And why is it one the most expensive scents in the fragrance industry.
The name “sandalwood” comes from the Sanskrit word “chandana”, meaning “pleasing to the senses.”
The name “sandalwood” comes from the Sanskrit word “chandana” meaning “pleasing to the senses.”
The combination of scarcity, time, and resources are increasing the price of sandalwood oils to lofty levels. There are also market factors driving the demand for this valuable commodity, such as the growing popularity of natural skincare products, aromatherapy, and perfumery. The perfumery industry has adapted by introducing synthetic, more cost-effective versions of sandalwood, smelling almost identical to its natural counterpart.
The name “sandalwood” comes from the Sanskrit word “chandana” meaning “pleasing to the senses.”
Due to increased global demand, the sandalwood tree has become one of the most valuable trees. With over 15 tree species growing around the world, the top 3 countries producing sandalwood oil are: India, Indonesia, and Australia. The market will pay a premium for sustainable, top grade oils that retain its distinctive olfactory profile.
Both Indian and Australian sandalwood fall into the same “Santalum” family - a species known for its highly aromatic heartwood. But it is the Indian tree that has earned the title “King of Woods” – the oils it produces are more superior than its Australian counterpart. In the world of fragrance creations, Indian sandalwood is highly cherished due it its distinctive woody aromas that are second to none.
Perfumers that select the most beautiful raw materials often include sandalwood as part of their palette. Compared to classical woody scents such as patchouli, sandalwood boasts a softer character that is not as pungent or loud. It’s a versatile base that easily blends with other ingredients, enabling perfumers to create a variety of candle scents that are diverse and captivating.
Because of its gender-neutral profile, sandalwood blends well with floral scents. Its woody and creamy profile adds depth and allure to white florals such as orange blossom, jasmine, and lily of the valley.
Woody scents like patchouli, vetiver and cedar evoke dark and intense notes. A balance is introduced with sandalwood, adding a soft creaminess that creates a cocooning effect.
Amber scents evoke a range of aromas that tend to be balsamic, animalic and warm. There are many combinations of the sandalwood – amber duo, but generally the sandalwood facet introduces a softer more luxurious woody base note.
The increased popularity of luxury candles has prompted perfumers to develop exciting new combinations of scents. The best candle brands are working with perfumers to introduce modern candle collections with woody ingredients that include sandalwood. While some candle aficionados adore sandalwood for its ability to enhance wellness and spirituality, others appreciate it for its creamy woody character.
Le Labo fragrances was founded in 2006 which was later acquired in 2014 by Esteé Lauder. Santal 26 was launched as a sandalwood inspired scented candle and room spray. The perfumer, German born Frank Voekl, was always interested in in the “milky character” and “impression of comfort” Sandalwood evokes. Described as “an aristocratic scent that’s smoky and leathery”, Santal 26 was an instant success. In 2010, Le Labo decided to introduce the perfume equivalent, Santal 33.
Main notes: Sandalwood, cedar, iris, leather
Size: 8.6 oz
Price: $84 USD
Founded in 1632, Cire Trudon as a leading French candle manufacturer that contracts with experienced perfumers to develop artistic candle scents. A strongly scented sandalwood candle, Tadine is designed to evoke Asian incense that helps with relieving stress and anxiety. Combined with woody notes of cardamom and guaiac wood, Tadine is immediately evocative, conjuring up images of temples in Asia.
Main notes: Sandalwood, cardamom, guaiac wood
Size: 9.5 oz
Price: $135 USD
Montreal- based Karl Winters is a luxury candle manufacturer that contracts with independent perfumers to create exceptional olfactory experiences. Adopting a “fragrance is art” approach, the brand creates scent stories that are inspired by art. The perfumer leverages the versatility of sandalwood to compose Under The Fig Tree, a rich, deep, and woody candle scent that smells of Mediterranean fig sap. With hints of floral greenery and creamy fig essence, Under The Fig Tree will add a touch of relaxation and comfort to your senses.
Main notes: Sandalwood, fig, white florals
Size: 8 oz
Price: $56 USD
Carriere Freres is another experienced French candle manufacturer that dates to 1884. The company is known for their use of natural fragrance oils that are extracted from herbs, roots, flowers, fruits and trees. Their Sandalwood candle is testament to their exclusive use of fragrant sandalwood oil that originates from Mysore, India. A popular choice for natural enthusiasts, this candle releases sweet milky notes that contrasts with the soft woodiness of Sandalwood.
Main notes: Sandalwood, woods
Size: 6.5 oz
Price: $69 US
Ben Gorham created Byredo as a Swedish based luxury perfume and candle brand. Leveraging the power of storytelling, Byredo fragrances began establishing itself in luxury department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue. Bohemia is a luxury candle that offers a distinct sandalwood aroma that is rounded with sweet base of vanilla, rum and germanium. With Byredo’s signature black wax, Bohemia is sure to delight those that enjoy a floral amber scent.
Main notes: Sandalwood, rum, germanium, vanilla
Size: 8.4 oz
Price: $99 USD
Bella Freud is a London-based fashion designer that has gained a following among celebrities like Kate Moss. The brand’s unique visual identity integrates into products like clothing and candles. The success of Bella Freud’s iconic “1970 jumper” has been extended to the 1970 Gold Ceramic Candle. This luxurious candle is inspired by incense scents, particularly that of frankincense. Base notes of sandalwood and vetiver enhance the scent intensity, delivering an aroma that is bright, musky, and tastefully masculine.
Main notes: Sandalwood, frankincense, musk, vetiver
Size: 8.0 oz
Price: $214 USD
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