Perfumes have being with mankind for thousands of years now. Archaeologists have uncovered what are believed to be the world's oldest perfumes in Pygros, Cyprus, dating back more than 4,000 years.
The word ‘Perfume’ is derived from the Latin per fume "through smoke".
Applying perfumed oils was a ritual first used by the Egyptians and later by Indian Kings as well. They would use it for all personal care such as cosmetic or medicinal purposes. The use of perfume then spread to Greece, Rome and the Islamic World. During the twelfth century, with the development of international trade, the use of perfume soared.
Perfume enjoyed particular popularity in the seventeenth century. Perfumed gloves, and the use of perfume generally, applied to fans, clothing and furniture as well as the skin, saw steady growth in France.
Eau de Cologne was invented during the eighteenth century. This refreshing blend of rosemary, neroli, bergamot and lemon was used in many different ways: in bath water, as a mouth wash, mixed with wine, eaten on a sugar lump, used as an ingredient for a poultice, as an enema, or even injected directly!
With the advent of the 19th century perfumes acquired a whole new meaning. It was no longer the domain of the kings and queens but still remained a bastion of the rich and famous. The development of modern chemistry laid the foundations for perfume as we know it today. Many new fragrances were created. Fragrance Houses became established in Paris, then accross Europe, and in London. Bottles became increasingly important.
During the twentieth century floral fragrances became more popular. Couturier Gabrielle Chanel launched her own brand of perfume. In 1932 Worth's Je Reviens was launched, and remains a popular perfume to this day, along with Elizabeth Arden's Blue Grass. French perfumery was at its peak during the 1950's, with designers such as Christian Dior creating their own scents.
Today there are over 30,000 designer perfumes on the market, and perfumes are no longer just for the wealthy. Celebrity fragrances have increased in popularity in recent years.
The perfume industry has undergone several changes in technique, material and style, the modern industry incorporating creativity, mystique and romance. By the year 2008 the perfume industry had become worth $10 billion, and continues to thrive!
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