Saffron, the spice that comes from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus, has been cultivated for more than three and a half millennia and is considered one of the most delicious substances in the world. With its beautiful, intense yellow-orange colour and hay-like scent, it has ...Saffron, the spice that comes from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus, has been cultivated for more than three and a half millennia and is considered one of the most delicious substances in the world. With its beautiful, intense yellow-orange colour and hay-like scent, it has been used as a spice and colouring agent, as well as a medicine and fragrance.
The use of saffron as a sexual stimulant dates back to biblical times, when the Egyptians used saffron in perfumes and body cleansers for wealthy people such as Cleopatra. Saffron was adopted by the Persians in the 11th–12th century BC, where its use and cultivation quickly spread throughout the country.‘ Saffron has always been part of my Indian upbringing, both for its smell and its taste and colour. It is sacred to all Hindus, it gives Buddhist robes their colour and has become a symbol of India.
Byredo's ‘Black Saffron’ is a fragrance inspired by this idea of sublime unity. As I grew up, I learned more about my heritage, and this fragrance has contributed greatly to that process.’ – Ben Gorham, founder and creative director of ByredoThe fragrance “Black Saffron”, an oriental composition, opens with a light citrus accent of Asian grapefruit and fresh juniper berries, embedded in a relaxing golden sillage of saffron from Kashmir. At the heart is black violet, nestled in a leathery accord where the dark, dry composition is lifted by the delicate transparency of crystal rose.
At the base, light woods add radiant warmth and harmony, underscored by staccato notes of juicy raspberry.