Diamonds & Rubies (1993)
by Elizabeth Taylor

Not an overly complex oriental. websites list the notes as lilac, rose, peach, orchid, amber and vanilla. I also detect a spicy note of carnation as well as lower hints of oakmoss and musk at the base. The peach and lilac seems the most evident, while the rose is more powdery and subdued with a touch of green from the orchid.

Rich and sophisticated, the scent begins with a wooded and ambered floralcy with a spicy edge, it got me excited. I thought I would've enjoyed the smell of this a lot more, but as it develops, it loses its fire and there is an ennui about it, much like Guerlain's Mitsuoko with its peach and oakmoss facets, but lacks the woody strength, spicy ferocity and boldness of Mitsouko. Heavens no, they do not smell alike, I was just comparing the notes, folks.

There is a dark mystery about it, which will fit the woman who seems to see straight into your soul. Pass on this if you're looking for romantic, fresh, and/or bubbly.

8th December, 2007.