# 2 : Iris.
Iris is probably the most expensive raw material of perfumer’s palette. Its price is so high that it’s used in very little quantities.
Iris is a purple flower, which has big white roots named “rhizomes”. Its rhizomes are firstly dried, during 3 years, then crushed into a thin powder, and finally distilled with steam. An “iris butter” is obtained, with a very little yield (hence its price).
Contrary to rose or jasmine, its petals can’t be extracted : it gives nothing.
Powdery, iris gives a smell which is similar to violet, due to the presence of a common molecule : the ionone.
Feminine and delicate : Thus is iris.
(c) Laure BOYER , January 31st, 2012.