Trichloromethyl phenyl carbinyl acetate (Rose crystal)

Rose crystal, also sold as rose crystals or rosacetol, is the trade name for a synthetic aroma chemical. It is a solid with low volatility, so it lasts well and stays stable in alkaline products such as soap.

• Chemical name: trichloromethyl phenyl carbinyl acetate (2,2,2-trichloro-1-phenylethyl acetate)
• Formula: C10H9Cl3O2
• CAS number: 90-17-5
• Molar mass: 267.5 g/mol
• Melting point: about 86 to 89 °C
• Odour: faint, slightly metallic up close; sweet and rosy when diluted

It is far less volatile than lighter rose materials such as phenyl ethyl alcohol, which is why it can still be smelled on a soap bar after the lighter notes have faded.

Azlok lists Rose Crystal Powder in its aromatic raw materials range, for perfumers, soap makers and incense makers. The pack size is on the product page. Fresh crystals should be white and free-flowing; clumped or discoloured material has likely been exposed to moisture or heat. Since trade names can vary between suppliers, ask for the specification or CAS number if your formula depends on it. See today's price per kg.

• Rose and floral notes in soaps and detergent fragrances, where it holds up well
• Floral perfume and attar-style blends, as a lasting background rose note
• Incense sticks, dhoop and room fragrance compounds

1. Dissolve the crystals first in a suitable solvent or carrier, such as perfumer's alcohol, DPG, benzyl benzoate or warm fragrance oil. Gentle warming helps.
2. Add the solution to your blend and let it rest for a few days before judging the smell.
3. Use it as a supporting note with rose materials such as phenyl ethyl alcohol, geraniol and citronellol, not as the only rose material.

Because it is a solid, a strong solution can crystallise when cold. Many perfumers keep a 10% stock solution in their solvent, labelled, and dose blends from that. If crystals appear, warm the bottle gently in warm water until clear.

Use levels vary by formula; build up in small steps and record each trial. Check current IFRA standards for any limits before using it in skin-contact products, and patch test finished products.

• Wear gloves and avoid breathing the dust when weighing. Avoid eye contact.
• Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep away from strong oxidisers and strong bases in neat form.
• Keep away from children.
• Don't throw solutions or neat material into drains; collect small leftovers on absorbent paper and dispose of them with solid waste.

Rose crystal is used in small amounts, so perfumers and hobbyists need only a small pack. Soap and incense units using it in every batch can buy more. Keep a written record of the lot and the dilution you made, so you can repeat a fragrance that works. For 25 kg and above, use the bulk inquiry form.