Guaiacwood Acetate — Woody Rosy Fixative | Natural Isolate | Origin Paraguay

Part of our Professional Perfumers Range — curated for the discerning natural perfumer seeking exceptional depth and rarity.

Guaiacwood Acetate — Woody Elegance with a Whisper of Rose

Guaiacwood Acetate is produced by the acetylation of guaiacwood oil — itself steam distilled from the wood of Bulnesia sarmientoi, a South American tree found across Paraguay and the wider Gran Chaco region. This natural isolate takes the warm, smoky woodiness of the parent oil and refines it into something more elegant, more rose-tinged, and considerably more versatile — a material treasured by perfumers for its ability to add sophistication to a composition without ever overwhelming it.

Though its name suggests a connection to true Guaiacum, the guaiacwood of perfumery is in fact Bulnesia sarmientoi — a related but botanically distinct species long used interchangeably in the trade. The acetylated form captures the wood's smoky, spicy warmth while introducing a delicate rosy brightness that the raw oil doesn't fully express, making it one of the more distinctive and useful natural woody materials in the modern perfumer's palette.

Scent Profile

The opening is smooth and woody, underpinned by characteristic smoky facets and a gentle spiciness that immediately signals its guaiacwood origin. As it develops, delicate rosy nuances emerge — a soft, tea-rose brightness that contrasts beautifully with the powerful woody foundation beneath. The result is a material of genuine complexity and texture, adding sophistication without ever competing for attention. Excellent tenacity, persisting well over 300 hours on a smelling strip.

Perfumery Applications

Guaiacwood Acetate is widely used across woody florals, leather fragrances, balsamic compositions, amber perfumes, and oriental creations. Its rosy woody character makes it an outstanding fixative and extender for rose bases — particularly tea rose accords — where its complex nuance of rose, spice, and wood adds depth without dominating. It also functions as a useful alternative or supplement to vetiveryl acetate, which carries tighter IFRA restrictions, giving natural perfumers a more flexible woody-rosy option. Recommended use level: up to 8%.

Blending Suggestions

Pairs beautifully with rose absolute, sandalwood, patchouli, cedarwood, tobacco absolute, labdanum, amber materials, incense and resinous notes, soft musks, and oud accords.

Technical Details

• Source Material: Bulnesia sarmientoi (Guaiacwood)
• Common Name: Guaiacwood Acetate / Guaiyl Acetate
• Botanical Family: Zygophyllaceae
• INCI Name: Guaiacwood Extract
• CAS Number: 61789-17-1
• Origin: Paraguay
• Production Method: Acetylation of steam-distilled guaiacwood oil
• Classification: Base note — fixative
• Appearance: Yellow liquid
• Odour Family: Woody / Smoky / Spicy / Rosy
• Longevity: Over 300 hours on a smelling strip
• Suggested Use: Up to 8% in a finished composition
• Natural: Yes — natural isolate derived from steam-distilled guaiacwood oil

Packaging

1ml sample supplied in a 5ml clear flint glass bottle. 5ml, 10ml and 30ml supplied in amber glass bottles — all with inbuilt droppers and tamper evident caps.

Safety Information

For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes and sensitive areas. Not suitable for use on babies, children, pets or broken skin. Avoid use during pregnancy or whilst nursing. Always dilute properly and perform a patch test before first use.

Sample Policy

We recommend purchasing a 1ml sample first before committing to larger quantities. Please note that no refunds can be offered on opened items.

Photo images are for illustrative purposes only.