Genet absolute (CAS 129316-65-0) — Floral Heart Note Fragrance Ingredient

Floral · Sweet

Genet absolute

CAS 129316-65-0

Origin
natural
Note
Heart
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Genet absolute?

Genet absolute is a rare floral extract derived from broom flowers (Genista species), historically used in high-end perfumery. It offers a complex honeyed, powdery, and slightly animalic scent profile. This luxurious material matters because it adds vintage sophistication to floral and chypre compositions, though its limited availability makes it a niche perfumer’s treasure.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
No major restrictions
Potential allergen – patch test recommended
CAS
129316-65-0
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Floral · Sweet
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Genet absolute Smell Like?

Genet absolute unfolds like a sun-warmed meadow: initial bursts of honeyed pollen and dried hay transition into a heart of powdery mimosa and chamomile tea nuances. The drydown reveals a whisper of leather and warm skin, reminiscent of antique linens stored in wooden chests. Its tenacity is moderate but diffusive, leaving a golden floral trail that avoids cloying sweetness.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Chanel No. 19(Chanel, 1970)

Used for its powdery floralcy to soften the green galbanum-vetiver structure, adding vintage femininity.

Jicky(Guerlain, 1889)

Provides honeyed warmth that bridges the lavender top to vanilla base in this pioneering fougère.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Genet absolute contains over 200 compounds including phenylacetic acid derivatives, coumarins, and terpenoids. The honeyed character comes from methyl anthranilate and phenylethyl alcohol, while indole derivatives contribute subtle animalic facets. Solvent extraction from Genista florentina flowers yields a viscous orange-brown absolute with variable composition depending on harvest conditions.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceViscous orange-brown liquid
SolubilitySoluble in alcohol, insoluble in water

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Heart
Volatility
Medium (2-6 hours)
Blending
Excellent
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Adds vintage floral richness
Soaps0.1-0.5%Up to 1%Use stabilized versions

Classic Accords

+ Oakmoss + Bergamot = Chypre + Vanilla + Tonka = Oriental

Tip: Blend with ionones to amplify powdery facets or with animalics for vintage effects.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Mimosa absolute CAS 8037-12-3

Similar powdery floral character but lacks honeyed depth.

2
Broom absolute CAS 90045-55-5

More green and hay-like with less animalic complexity.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions. Contains trace methyl eugenol (<0.1%) naturally occurring.

EU Allergen Declaration

Contains trace benzyl benzoate (declaration required above 0.001%).

RIFM Assessment

RIFM safety assessment complete – approved for current use levels.

Sustainability

Wild-harvested in limited Mediterranean regions, making sustainable cultivation initiatives critical. Solvent extraction process requires significant plant material. Eco-certified versions now available through conservation-focused suppliers.

Explore Genet absolute

Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.

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References

  1. Arctander S. (1960). Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin.
  2. Joulain D. (2018). The Absolute of Spanish Broom. Perfumer & Flavorist.

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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