In 1946, Crown Jewel by Prince Matchabelli emerged onto the perfumery scene, marking a significant moment for the brand post-World War II. This period was characterized by a resurgence in luxury and glamour after the austerity of war years, making it an opportune time for a new fragrance launch. Perfumery itself was undergoing a renaissance, with iconic fragrances becoming associated with both personal luxury and societal status.
Prince Matchabelli's choice of the name "Crown Jewel" for this perfume carries multiple layers of significance. Firstly, it aligns with the brand's royal associations—Prince Matchabelli himself was a Georgian prince, and by naming a fragrance "Crown Jewel," he evoked notions of regal elegance and exclusivity. The term "Crown Jewel" is traditionally used to denote the most precious and valuable item in a collection, often associated with royalty and dynastic heritage. By applying this name to a perfume, Matchabelli positioned his creation as a pinnacle of luxury and refinement, appealing to those who sought to embody sophistication and opulence.
The name "Crown Jewel" would resonate deeply with consumers who aspired to a sense of royalty and elegance in their personal lives. It would evoke images of ornate crowns adorned with rare gems, sumptuous courtly settings, and the allure of precious treasures. Those who wore the perfume would likely feel a sense of elevated status and sophistication, akin to wearing a coveted jewel that enhances their aura of glamour and allure.
In essence, Crown Jewel by Prince Matchabelli embodied more than just a perfume; it encapsulated a vision of luxury, elegance, and timeless allure. Its name and marketing strategy were crafted to resonate with an audience seeking to adorn themselves with nothing less than a "crown jewel" of fragrance, symbolizing both personal indulgence and cultural sophistication.
"Imported From France?"
Fragrance Composition:
- Top notes: aldehydes, green note, lily of the valley, peach
- Middle notes: rose, jasmine, lily, orchid, tuberose
- Base notes: orris, Mysore sandalwood, cedar, Abyssinian ambergris, Tibetan musk, Abyssinian civet, patchouli
Scent Story:
In the bustling atmosphere of a department store in mid-20th century America, Prince Matchabelli embarked on a tour to promote his latest creation, Crown Jewel. The air was filled with anticipation as customers gathered around the perfume section, eager to catch a glimpse of the famed prince and experience his newest olfactory masterpiece.
As Prince Matchabelli entered the department store, his presence exuded an air of regal elegance. Dressed impeccably in a tailored suit with a subtle hint of lavender, he greeted guests with a warm smile and a gracious demeanor. His voice, tinged with a slight European accent, carried across the room as he began to share the story behind Crown Jewel.
"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen," he began, his words carrying a nostalgic tone. "Creating Crown Jewel has been a journey of perseverance and dedication. During the war, obtaining the finest raw materials from France was a challenge. Importation restrictions and the occupation made it nearly impossible to procure the essential ingredients that define French perfumery."
As he spoke, the scent of Crown Jewel enveloped the space around him, a symphony of floral and woody notes that captivated the senses. The top notes of aldehydes and a refreshing green accord danced delicately in the air, mingling with the sweet allure of peach and the delicate freshness of lily of the valley.
"With Crown Jewel," Prince Matchabelli continued, his voice filled with pride, "we sought to capture the essence of sophistication and luxury, much like the crown jewels themselves. The Matchabelli name has long been associated with royalty and refinement, and this fragrance embodies those values."
As guests sampled the perfume, their reactions were animated and delighted. Some closed their eyes, inhaling deeply to savor the rich floral heart of roses, jasmine, and tuberose, intertwined with the exotic allure of orchid. Others marveled at the base notes that lingered on their skin—a blend of rare orris, creamy Mysore sandalwood, and the subtle warmth of cedar and patchouli.
The room buzzed with conversations about the exquisite layers of Crown Jewel, each guest discovering their own connection to the fragrance. Some reminisced about the elegance of Jean Patou's Joy, noting the similarities in its opulence and radiant floral bouquet, yet appreciating Crown Jewel's unique blend that added an exotic touch with Abyssinian ambergris, Tibetan musk, and Abyssinian civet.
As Prince Matchabelli concluded his presentation, the scent of Crown Jewel lingered as a lingering memory of luxury and sophistication. Guests departed with bottles in hand, each one carrying with them a piece of the prince's vision—a fragrance that not only adorned, but empowered, like a true crown jewel of personal elegance and allure.