rosewood

A warm, slightly spicy wood with a faint floral whisper underneath, like cedar with a single rose petal pressed inside. Lighter than sandalwood, smoother than vetiver, with a soft creamy finish. True rosewood is now mostly restricted for conservation reasons, so synthetic versions and ho wood substitutes carry the load. A heart-to-base note that sits quietly under floral or oriental compositions, lending polish without weight.

Also known as: bois de rose, brazilian rosewood, rosewood oil