Perfume Review

Xerjoff Amber Star Review: The Luminous Jewel of Opulent Amber

Unveiling the captivating allure of a modern masterpiece.

By Sofia Chen-Martinez ·

In the rarefied air of luxury perfumery, certain creations don't just scent the skin; they weave narratives, evoke memories, and command attention. Xerjoff's Amber Star, a jewel from their esteemed Amber & Spices collection, is precisely one such masterpiece. Launched in 2013, this fragrance arrived not as a fleeting trend, but as a statement of enduring elegance and opulent craftsmanship. It was born from a desire to bottle the intoxicating allure of amber, a note that has captivated perfumers and connoisseurs for centuries, reinterpreting its warmth and depth through the lens of modern artistry. The Amber & Spices collection itself is a testament to Xerjoff's commitment to exploring the most precious and exotic ingredients, and Amber Star quickly became a shining beacon within it, celebrated for its sophisticated complexity and undeniable charisma.

Positioned at the pinnacle of the luxury fragrance market, Amber Star stands as a testament to Xerjoff's unwavering dedication to quality and exclusivity. It's not a scent you stumble upon; it's a destination for those who seek the extraordinary. Within Xerjoff's extensive and diverse lineup, Amber Star occupies a special place, often lauded as one of their most iconic and beloved creations. Its market positioning is clear: it’s for the discerning individual who appreciates the finer things, who understands that a fragrance is an extension of their personal style and a subtle, yet powerful, form of self-expression. It competes in a space where artistry, rare ingredients, and meticulous attention to detail reign supreme, setting it apart from mass-market offerings and appealing directly to the luxury consumer who values heritage and innovation in equal measure.

The inspiration behind Amber Star is as rich and multifaceted as the scent itself. It’s a tribute to the timeless allure of amber, that precious fossilized resin known for its warm, sweet, and slightly balsamic character. However, Xerjoff doesn't simply present a straightforward amber. Instead, they have woven a tapestry of notes that amplify and refine this central theme. Imagine the golden glow of a setting sun, the smooth texture of polished wood, and the subtle whisper of exotic spices – this is the sensory landscape Amber Star aims to capture. It’s about creating an olfactory experience that is both comforting and exhilarating, familiar yet entirely new. The concept is to elevate the wearer, to imbue them with an aura of sophistication and magnetic charm, making them the undeniable star of any room.

The reputation of Amber Star within the fragrance community is nothing short of legendary. It's a scent that consistently garners praise for its unique character, its remarkable performance, and its sheer luxuriousness. Connoisseurs often speak of its intoxicating blend of sweetness, spice, and wood, describing it as a scent that evolves beautifully on the skin, revealing new facets with each passing hour. It has cultivated a devoted following, becoming a signature scent for many who appreciate its bold yet sophisticated profile. Its impact is evident in the numerous discussions, reviews, and accolades it receives, solidifying its status as a modern classic and a benchmark for amber-centric fragrances. It’s a scent that sparks conversation and leaves a lasting impression, a true testament to the artistry of its creation.

The Nose Behind the Scent

Chris Maurice. A perfumer deeply connected with the Xerjoff brand, Chris Maurice is known for his ability to craft complex, opulent, and highly wearable fragrances. His work on Amber Star exemplifies his skill in harmonizing rich notes into a sophisticated and luxurious composition.

4.4 Overall
Longevity
4.8
Projection
4.0
Sillage
3.9
$300 - $450 USD for 100ml
🌸Springβ˜€οΈSummerπŸ‚Fall❄️Winter

Accords

Sweet 40%
Amber 30%
Woody 15%
Spicy 10%
Musky 5%

Notes Pyramid

Top
CorianderBergamot
Heart
HoneyLabdanum
Base
AmbergrisBenzoinMuskCedarwood

Scent Journey

1
Opening 0-30 min

The initial impression of Amber Star is surprisingly bright and invigorating. The sharp, almost peppery zest of coriander dances with the uplifting citrusy aroma of bergamot. This isn't a heavy, immediate amber; it’s a sophisticated introduction that hints at the richness to come, offering a clean, slightly spicy, and undeniably elegant start that prepares the senses for the main event.

2
Heart 1-2 hrs

As the top notes recede, Amber Star transitions into its opulent heart. The sweetness here is not cloying but rather a smooth, luxurious embrace. The creamy, golden notes of honey become more pronounced, mingling beautifully with the deep, resinous, and slightly leathery facets of labdanum. This phase is where the fragrance truly begins to exude its warmth and sensuality, creating an intoxicating and addictive aura that is both comforting and alluring.

3
Drydown 4+ hrs

The base notes of Amber Star are where its legendary longevity and profound depth are truly showcased. The classic amber accord takes center stage, a rich, balsamic, and slightly animalic blend that feels both ancient and modern. Ambergris provides a salty, marine-tinged richness, while benzoin adds a sweet, vanilla-like warmth. The subtle musk and smooth cedarwood ground the composition, adding a sophisticated, clean finish that lingers for hours, leaving a memorable and luxurious trail.

Performance Dashboard

⏱️ Longevity 4.8/5

This fragrance is an absolute marathon runner. On skin, it easily lasts 10-12 hours, and on clothing, it can persist for days. It’s the kind of scent that accompanies you from morning until late night without needing a touch-up.

πŸ“’ Projection 4.0/5

Amber Star projects assertively for the first 3-4 hours, creating a noticeable scent bubble that is impressive but not overwhelming. It announces its presence elegantly, drawing people in rather than pushing them away.

πŸ’¨ Sillage 3.9/5

The trail left by Amber Star is sophisticated and luxurious. It’s a noticeable, warm, and inviting scent cloud that follows you, leaving a pleasant and memorable impression without being suffocating.

When to Wear

🌸SpringOK
β˜€οΈSummerAvoid
πŸ‚FallBest
❄️WinterBest
πŸ’• Date nightπŸ“Œ Evening events and formal gatheringsπŸ“Œ Clubbing and nightlifeπŸ“Œ Special occasions and celebrationsπŸ“Œ Sophisticated casual outings (e.g., fine dining)πŸ“Œ When you want to feel luxurious and confident

Community Verdict

⭐ Overall
4.4
πŸ‘ƒ Scent
4.6
⏱️ Longevity
4.8
πŸ’¨ Sillage
3.9
πŸ’° Value
3.8
πŸ’Œ Compliment Factor 4.7/5

This fragrance is a phenomenal compliment getter. Its opulent and unique profile is highly captivating, often eliciting questions and admiration from both men and women. It’s a scent that leaves a lasting, positive impression.

Pros & Cons

  • βœ… Incredibly unique and complex scent profile that stands out.
  • βœ… Exceptional longevity, making it a great value for its wear time.
  • βœ… Luxurious and opulent aroma that exudes sophistication.
  • βœ… The amber and honey combination is addictive and captivating.
  • βœ… Beautifully blended notes that evolve gracefully on the skin.
  • ❌ Can be overpowering if oversprayed, especially in warmer weather.
  • ❌ The premium price point places it firmly in the luxury category.
  • ❌ May be too sweet or rich for those who prefer lighter, fresher scents.
  • ❌ Some find the amber note to be very prominent, which can be polarizing.

Price & Value

$300 - $450 USD for 100ml
Luxury

“For fragrance aficionados who appreciate the art of perfumery and desire a scent that is both distinctive and enduring, Amber Star is absolutely worth the investment. Its longevity and sillage mean a little goes a long way, and the sheer sensory pleasure it provides is unparalleled.”

πŸ“œ Reformulation History

Xerjoff is generally known for its consistency, and Amber Star has maintained its integrity since its release. There are no widespread reports or significant concerns regarding batch variations or major reformulations that have altered its core character. The quality and scent profile remain remarkably stable, ensuring that each bottle delivers the expected opulent experience.

Who It's For

βœ… Ideal For

  • Men and women aged 25 and above who possess a confident, sophisticated, and perhaps even bold personality.
  • Those who enjoy rich, warm, and opulent fragrances, and who aren't afraid of a scent that garners attention.
  • Individuals with a refined taste for luxury and a desire to express their individuality through scent.
  • The modern connoisseur who appreciates artisanal craftsmanship.

⚠️ Not Recommended For

  • Individuals who prefer very light, fresh, or minimalist scents might find Amber Star too intense.
  • Those with extreme sensitivity to sweet or amber-heavy fragrances should proceed with caution.
  • It's also not the best choice for very casual daytime settings or environments where a subtle, unobtrusive scent is paramount.

Explore More

πŸ” Similar Fragrances

Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille Tom Ford

Shares a similar warm, sweet, and spicy profile with a prominent tobacco and vanilla heart.

Parfums de Marly Herod Parfums de Marly

Features a rich blend of tobacco, cinnamon, and vanilla, with a comforting, syrupy sweetness.

Mancera Cedrat Boise Mancera

While more citrus-forward, it shares a luxurious woody-ambery base with a touch of sweetness.

Amouage Interlude Man Amouage

Offers a more smoky and resinous take on amber and incense, with a powerful, complex profile.

πŸ’‘ Clone Alternatives

Afnan 9pm Afnan

Often compared for its sweet, gourmand aspects and evening-wear appeal, though less complex.

Armaf Club de Nuit Intense Man Armaf

While more of a Creed Aventus comparison, it shares a bold, attention-grabbing quality and luxurious feel that some associate with Amber Star's impact.

❀️ You May Also Enjoy

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Another Xerjoff gem with a sweet, fruity, and caramel-like profile.

Initio Parfums PrivΓ©s Side Effect Initio Parfums PrivΓ©s

A boozy, tobacco, and vanilla scent with a similar opulent and addictive quality.

Roja Parfums Elysium Pour Homme Parfum Cologne Roja Parfums

While brighter, it shares a luxurious feel and excellent performance for those who want a refined, upscale scent.

By Kilian Black Phantom By Kilian

A decadent gourmand with rum, coffee, and caramel notes that appeals to those who love sweet, rich scents.

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πŸ§ͺ Layering Ideas

πŸ† Final Verdict

Amber Star is more than just a fragrance; it's an olfactory statement, a luxurious embrace that speaks of confidence and refined taste. If you're someone who appreciates the art of perfumery, who seeks out scents that are both unique and exceptionally well-crafted, then Amber Star is an absolute must-have. Its intoxicating blend of sweet amber, rich honey, and warm resins creates an aura of opulence that is both captivating and enduring. This is a fragrance that doesn't just smell good; it makes you feel good – sophisticated, alluring, and undeniably special. Its performance is second to none, ensuring you leave a memorable impression wherever you go. For those who understand that a fragrance is an investment in personal style and an extension of their identity, Amber Star offers an unparalleled experience. It’s a scent that garners compliments, sparks conversations, and stands the test of time, making it a true treasure in any luxury fragrance collection.

XerjoffAmber StarLuxury FragranceAmber PerfumeHoney FragranceUnisex PerfumeNiche PerfumePerfume ReviewScent ProfileChris MauriceAmber & Spices Collection