Another standout fragrance from the Niche Emerati line. They really do seem to be attempting to bridge a gap between the middle eastern & the western niche perfumeries. This one was an early 2025 release with a close resemblance to PDM's Althair. But unlike the popular alternative, Liquid Bruhn, this is not a direct clone, Yes it does have some of that gourmand DNA, it goes off in a more leather/Spicey direction. All in a rather pleasant twist. The opening is an immediate statement. It hits with the warm, metallic tang of saffron & the aromatic punch of green cardamom. The cumin adds a slight earthy, skin ike warmth while the violet gives an airy, powdery softness that keeps the spices from becoming too heavy. As the initial spice settles, the heart reveals its true character: Suede. This isn't a harsh leather; it's a soft, velvety, brushed suede. The osmanthus adds a faint peachy- loral sweetness that smooths out the edges of the cloves & nutmeg, giving the fragrance a textured depth. The dry-down is where the Stone in the name makes sense. It feels grounded & solid. The ambergris provides a salty, mineral shimmer, while the woody notes & oakmoss give it a classic, masculine-leaning backbone. The musk ensures a clean, lingering trail that stays on the skin for hours. This will last you at least 7hrs on Skin, and it will stay on clothes until they are washed. Projection is solid too. It creates a noticeable bubble around the wearer for the first 3 hours without being cloying. It is best suited for evening wear, formal events, or cold weather daytime use. Its spicy-leather profile makes it a perfect companion for a leather jacket or a sharp suit. Think a bottle is needed for my shelf. My Rating: 9/10 Scent: 3 Longevity: 2.5 Sillage: 2.5 Y/N: 1

This was an outstanding fragrance from last year's additions for me. Rusty Island by Auraa Desire appears to be associated with the house of Rasasi, is an extremely food Extrait de Parfum that has been a popular choice since its release in 2023. This was one of the Luxury options that I picked up in the ME world. Said to be a highconcentration alternative to Louis Vuitton’s Ombre Nomade. Well the core of both fragrances have the DNA of Oud, Rose & Saffron, but the execution varies: While it mimics the Ombre Nomade structure, it leans harder into the earthy, metallic side. It replaces the prominent raspberry sweetness of the LV with a stronger presence of Geranium & Cypriol. This makes it feel slightly more green & gritty compared to the smoother, fruitier sweetness of Ombre Nomade. As usual,a perfumer was not credited here. Rusty Island can be defined by its rich, multi-layered structure that evolves dramatically from the first spray. In the opening, a classic duo of rose & geranium provides a floral elegance, which is immediately sharpened & warmed by a prominent note of saffron, giving it a slightly spicy, metallic rusty edge. As the fragrance transitions into the middle notes, it becomes significantly more earthy & textured; here, patchouli & cypriol oil introduce a smoky, woodsy depth, while sandalwood adds a creamy counterpoint to the sharper herbal elements. The base is where the fragrance anchors itself, settling into a deep, luxurious foundation of leather, amber & agarwood. This combo creates a resinous, animalic, slightly sweet finish that lingers for hours. Rusty Island lives up to its Extrait designation. It has what can only be described as exceptional longevity, this will stay on skin all day long, easily 10hrs. With a heavy projection for at least 3, where it can work it's way through a room at ease. Because of its intense, warm, and spicy character, it is best suited for the autumn & winter seasons. It is an ideal choice for formal evening occasions, or anywhere you want to make a statement.