Madam Pearl

im so happy that i blind bought a fs of madam pearl, it’s understandable why this is an IMAM beloved. i am also subsequently sad that it’s discontinued. smells kinda like sadzi to me, it has some sort of citrus underbelly that contributes to it’s “bright” smell. but it’s more complex than sadzi, there’s another note(s) that grounds it beautifully, im assuming its the paper, bone china and tea leaves. i can’t really pick out the tea notes in alkemia blends because they’re well blended and they aren’t completely photorealistic but it really contributes to a sophisticated and lovely scent. i can also pick out a white pepper scent and it’s so nice, it doesnt stand out harshly and instead contributes to the harmony of the whole blend. im conflicted i think it’s a new HG scent for me but it was JUST discontinued, my heart longs for more.

I purchased 6 samplers from Alkemia (others- Midnight Garden, Madam X, Love is Nearer Death, Cyanide, Gothique) and this is the only one that stood out to me. Has a tea scent and is a bit powdery. Very strong but not sure of sillage or projection. More of a skin scent I believe. Lasted a good 4 hours until I showered. Could possibly have lasted longer had I not showered. Not so perfumery smelling for my tastes, but I would walk around the house with this. I think it smells of goodness. Husband says it smells "open" and "comforting".

A beautiful, clean scent, by turns soft and sophisticated with unmistakable tea notes sitting front and centre. It reminds me of Bulgari’s Green Tea, and the 1990’s: a bit CK One and Tommy Girl. This pretty scent sits close to the skin with a modest but not negligible sillage; in my hair it heightens the smell of my shampoo. All in all, lovely. And ideal for anyone who loves tea notes.

I’m not exaggerating when I say that Madam Pearl is the only tea scent I like. Tea notes tend to nauseate me with Uber-freshness but this one doesn’t. Well blended and easy to wear.

I put off trying this bonus sample for a long time because I "don't like tea notes" - now here I am, older and wiser, and Madam Pearl is no longer available on the website! I'm so sad, I really like it. The tea in Madam Pearl isn't too sharp or green. I think the paper and vanilla help tamp it down a little; I don't smell paper specifically, but there's a dry, musky sort of smell that I think must be part of it. I'm not sure about "powdery" but I agree it is clean. Not as atmospheric as some Alkemia scents. Just a really nice tea.