What Is Ambergris: How Is It Formed and Where Is It Found?

Until very recently, the exact formation of ambergris was somewhat of a mystery. However, it has been confirmed that ambergris is produced and excreted by sperm whales, despite the process never having been observed or recorded.

How Is Ambergris Formed?

Ambergris is a coprolith that originates from the sperm whale, which starts to form when the whale ingests something sharp or potentially harmful such as squid beaks. The whale produces a cholesterol-rich, fatty substance that coats the sharp object as a defence, meaning the potentially damaging item can pass through the whale’s stomach and digestive tract without causing internal damage. This process has been likened to a grain of sand in an oyster forming a pearl.

Where Is Ambergris Found?

Ambergris is found either at sea or on coastal shorelines all around the world. Pieces vary in size and shape, with some samples weighing over 100kg. However, it is more common to find smaller egg-shaped samples that weigh between 100g and 1kg.

A Brief History of Ambergris

A rare and valuable material, ambergris has played an important role throughout history and is believed to have been traded in Africa around 1000 BC. Used since ancient times as an ingredient in perfumes and medicines, ambergris is mentioned in multiple historical accounts that date back to the 15th century.

In the 16th century, ambergris was thought to be one of the most exotic and valuable materials in the world, and the interest and excitement around the material led to misinformation on the subject. Whilst some believed that ambergris was produced by whales, many others believed that it was produced on the sea bed, or from sea animal dung or even seafoam.

How Is Ambergris Used?

Renowned for its unique properties, ambergris is most commonly used in perfumery. The Ancient Egyptians would burn ambergris as incense to produce a unique and complex scent, and in modern Egypt it is added to cigarettes for its flavour and scent.

Companies such as Ambergris Connect enable the safe procurement, sourcing and identification of ambergris, as well as connecting buyers and sellers in the trade. Ambergris Connect helps to regulate the ambergris marketplace, making sure that all ambergris has been ethically procured and verified.