Chemical Properties
Ambergris, also called ambra, is the pathological tissue resulting from the consumption of indigestible components
by whales. It accumulates in the intestinal tract of the sperm or cachalot whale. It may become dislodged from the intestinal tract
and is occasionally washed ashore (Somaliland, Mozambique, Java, Japan and Madagascar); more often it is found in whales taken
in commercial hunts. Tissue ranges from 50 to 150 g in weight, although occasionally much larger pieces are found. Ambergris
usually is distinguished commercially in four different qualities, depending on the color and physical appearance (i.e., as soft black
amber, waxy ash-gray amber, gray amber or white amber). The latter two qualities are the most valued. The quality of ambergris may
improve on aging and particularly when exposed to daylight and saltwater.
Ambergris tincture has a peculiar, sweet, extremely tenacious odor with a seaweed, moss-like undertone. Although ambergris is
used mainly in perfumery, the tincture may be employed in the formulation of aromas to confer special bouquets to liqueurs, tobacco,
fruit flavors and beverages, candy and ice cream flavors
