The eighth fragrance from niche brand Agonist, Dark Saphir is a darkly glittering jewel to add to their collection of precious gem-based scents. Though the bottles exude that designer minimalist contemporary chic (and are a worthy addition to any dressing table or bathroom cabinet), the perfumes themselves are remarkably nuanced – layers of perfectly blended and uniquely handled notes to surround you in their long lasting trail the whole day through.
How to capture the exquisite depth of that sparkling blue sapphire within a scent? Through the modern-day alchemy that is the genius of perfumer’s art, and using a composition comprising of rare and exclusive materials, Agonist have somehow managed to do just that.
From the first spritz, you know you’re in for a treat, with violet leaves and black pepper leading confidently on to what could be considered a ‘classic floral heart’ – here given a definite zeitgeist twist by adding deft touches of carrot (an almost honeyed sweetness), voluptuous heliotrope, exotic orchid and a pinch of cinnamon.
The base notes really make this scent stand out from the crowd, with copaiba (a South American tree resin), nargamotha (a lightly spiced, woody relative of papyrus), creamy vanilla, tonka bean and oudh. Do not for a micro-second be put off by the word ‘oudh’ – because this is a sexy, slightly smoky yet gossamer soft version that’s like wearing a cashmere shawl next to your bare skin.
To us, it conjures up supermodel Naomi Campbell wearing a midnight blue skin skimming silk dress and slinking down the catwalk while wafting Dark Saphir in her wake. And you…?
Agonist Black Saphir £98 for 50ml eau de parfum
Buy it at Avery Perfumery
