Ingredient Guide
Like geosmin, it is described as the smell after rain. More precisely, petrichor is the scent that rises from the ground when oils released by plants have accumulated in rocks and soil during a prolonged spell of dry weather without rain, then are released into the air by moisture such as rain.
Petrichor means “essence of stone” in Greek.
How Does It Smell in Perfume?
Petrichor is the distinctive smell that rises when rain falls on dry ground. When raindrops strike porous surfaces such as soil or stone, fine aerosols containing substances from the soil are released into the air, spreading that familiar scent. In perfumery, it is expressed through reconstructed fragrance materials that combine green, earthy, and watery nuances, such as Givaudan’s Geogaia™. Inspired by a natural phenomenon, this note adds the refreshing feel and quiet depth of damp earth.
Choosing Petrichor Fragrances
Is it the smell of wet ground you love, or green leaves after rain? The scene you associate with rain can help you choose a petrichor fragrance. Earthy scents such as patchouli are useful clues for the smell of soil; green leaf and juniper notes bring plants into the picture too.
Fragrances to Explore
BAIE 19 (Le Labo)
A fragrance inspired by petrichor, the smell that rises when rain follows a dry spell. Juniper, patchouli and green leaves evoke rain-soaked earth and vegetation.
Find Your Next Fragrance
To explore more fragrances through the notes you enjoy, open our Fragrance Finder. Choose “Favorite fragrances & notes”, then search under “Favorite notes”. Select from the suggestions shown and press “Next”. You can start with notes even if you do not have a favorite fragrance.
