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scent: a natural history of fragrance

scent: a natural history of fragrance

Books

$ 28.00 USD
$ 28.00 USD
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A fascinating exploration of the natural history of scent and human perceptions of fragrance from the viewpoint of plant and pollinator

"An evocative journey that awakens one's curiosity to an oft-forgotten sense."--Dana Dunham, Scientific American

Plants have long harnessed the chemical characteristics of aromatic compounds to shape the world around them. Frankincense resin from the genus Boswellia seals injured tissues and protects trees from invading pathogens. Jasmine produces a molecule called linalool that attracts pollinating moths with its flowery scent. Tobacco uses a similarly sweet-smelling compound called benzyl acetone to attract pollinators. Only recently in the evolutionary history of plants, however, have humans learned to co-opt their fragrances to seduce, heal, protect, and alter moods themselves.

In this wide-ranging and accessible new book, biologist-turned-perfumer Elise Vernon Pearlstine turns our human-centered perception of fragrance on its head and investigates plants' evolutionary reasons for creating aromatic molecules. Delving into themes of spirituality, wealth, power, addiction, royalty, fantasy, and more, Pearlstine uncovers the natural history of aromatic substances and their intersection with human culture and civilization.

272 Pages

Hardcover

 

RETURN POLICY

Exchange or store credit is available on eligible (please see final sale items, below) full-priced items with a receipt within 15 days of purchase. No refunds, and no price adjustments for previously purchased merchandise. Items must qualify for exchange, and be unworn and in original condition - including packaging. Any jewelry that has been custom-ordered, modified or sized we are unable to accept for exchange.

FINAL SALE ITEMS

To ensure we offer the highest quality items to our customers and abide by sanitary standards, the following categories of products are not eligible for exchange and are  FINAL SALE: 

  • apothecary & fragrance (including all perishable goods)*
  • sunglasses & hats
  • all sale items (items sold at a discount)
  • gift certificates
  • international orders

*note on fragrance: 

All fragrance and apothecary sales are final. Fragrance is a personal, hygienic product, and once a bottle has left the shop we can't resell it — even unopened — with the same confidence we owe the next customer.

If you're not sure about a scent, samples are the right move — stop by the shop and we'll help you find one. 

Once an order is placed, we cannot guarantee that it may be cancelled. Please reach out to us immediately if you need to cancel your order. 

SHIPPING COSTS

Shipping costs are non-refundable. If complimentary shipping was received by the customer, any exchange or store credit will be in the amount of the item(s), less a $5-20 processing charge.

Refused shipments are not eligible for refund.

HANDMADE DISCLAIMER

Please note that all jewelry and handmade products may have slight variations, due to the handmade process and the natural range of stones and materials used. If you would like additional photos or measurements of the item, please contact hello@lencollective.com and we’d be happy to assist you in selecting the right piece. We do not issue refunds for these artistic variations.

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