Ambergris is a rare, waxy substance that has captivated humans for centuries due to its unique properties and value. This material, originating from sperm whales, has historically been a highly sought-after ingredient in perfumery. Its rarity and distinctive scent profile continue to make it a subject of intrigue for those exploring coastal environments.
What is Ambergris?
Ambergris forms within the digestive system of sperm whales, Physeter macrocephalus. It forms around indigestible items like squid beaks, a primary part of the whale’s diet. While whales usually regurgitate these parts, some pass into the intestine, forming this waxy mass. It is eventually excreted or, less commonly, regurgitated.
Fresh ambergris often has an unpleasant, fecal odor. However, prolonged exposure to ocean salt water, sunlight, and air causes it to oxidize and harden, transforming its smell into a complex, more desirable aroma. This aging process, which can take many years, develops its prized fragrance.
Where and How it’s Found
Ambergris is primarily discovered as “floating gold” washed ashore on beaches around the world. It is found in various coastal regions, including the Atlantic Ocean, South Africa, Brazil, Madagascar, the East Indies, the Maldives, China, Japan, India, Australia, New Zealand, and the Molucca Islands. It is more commonly found on remote beaches or rocky shorelines where ocean currents deposit debris. It can float in the ocean for years before making landfall, making its discovery a rare and often serendipitous event.
Ambergris is not actively harvested from living whales. Its presence on shore is a natural byproduct of the whale’s digestive process and oceanic conditions.
Identifying Ambergris
Identifying ambergris requires observing several physical characteristics.
Appearance and Texture
Its appearance can vary widely, often resembling a stone, rock, or hardened fat, with colors ranging from black, grey, brown, to white, or a mottled mix. Its texture is typically waxy and solid, sometimes hard like rock or dry clay, but pliable if very fresh. When dry, the interior often appears grainy or layered.
Scent
Aged ambergris develops a distinctive scent, often described as sweet, earthy, marine, or musky, with notes of tobacco or sandalwood. Conversely, fresh pieces may still retain a fecal odor.
Buoyancy
Ambergris typically floats in saltwater due to its lower specific gravity.
Heat Test
A common test involves heating a needle and touching it to the suspected material. Genuine ambergris will melt instantly, producing a glossy, sticky, black or caramel-colored residue and releasing white smoke with the characteristic aroma.
Squid Beaks
Occasionally, small, black squid beaks may be visible within the ambergris, indicating authenticity.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
The legality of possessing and trading ambergris varies considerably across countries. In many nations, including the United Kingdom, European Union member states, and New Zealand, finding and selling naturally occurring ambergris is legal. This is partly because the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) generally considers ambergris a natural excretion, not subject to the same strict regulations as other whale products.
However, in other countries, such as the United States, Australia, and India, the possession and trade of ambergris are restricted or prohibited. These restrictions often stem from national laws, such as the Endangered Species Act in the USA, aimed at protecting sperm whales. Even though ambergris is a natural byproduct and does not involve harming whales, varying legal interpretations highlight the importance of checking local regulations before engaging with any found material.