Orris root, often called “blue gold,” is another example of raw material luxury. Its rhizomes take up to five years to mature, followed by years of curing to develop the desired aroma. Only two to four kilograms of orris butter are produced for every tonne of rhizomes. French house Jacques Fath celebrated the material in their 2018 release, L’Iris de Fath (US$1380), a recreation of the iconic Iris Gris. “The sophisticated and elegant scent of natural orris is difficult to replicate synthetically, making it irreplaceable in luxury perfumery – and, of course, very expensive,” explains Creative Director, Rania Naim. Orris root aside, L’Iris de Fath features jasmine absolute from Grasse (in France’s Côte d’Azur region, known as the world’s perfume capital), Turkish rose, and carnation, with a Bourbon vetiver, and sandalwood base. At over $2,000 for 30ml, it’s an indulgence to savour.