Hyraceum Fragrances

Few materials are as fascinatingly strange as hyraceum, also known as Africa stone. Gathered as the fossilized, petrified excretions of the rock hyrax — a small African mammal — and collected without harming the animal, it offers one of perfumery's most complex animalic signatures. In raw form the scent is fierce: animal, warm and phenolic, with fecal and urinous facets. Diluted, however, it transforms into something remarkable, combining the sensual depth of musk, the smoky growl of castoreum and the radiant warmth of civet. It develops dark tobacco, leather and earthy nuances over time, lending carnal gravity to oud, amber, rose and leather compositions. The mood it creates is primal and intimate — skin, warmth and shadow.

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About Hyraceum Fragrances

Hyraceum — also known as African Stone — is one of perfumery's most unusual and storied animalic ingredients. It is the fossilized or aged urine and dung deposit of the rock hyrax (Procavia capensis), a small mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East. Formed over centuries in rocky crevices, hyraceum has been used in traditional African medicine and, more recently, has found a devoted following among niche perfumers seeking authentic animalic depth.


The scent of hyraceum is intensely complex: simultaneously animalic and intimate, it evokes tobacco, aged leather, dark earth, and a faint sweetness reminiscent of castoreum or civet — but with a distinctly mineral, fossil-like quality that sets it apart. At low concentrations it adds extraordinary richness and warmth; at higher doses, it becomes visceral and challenging. It is an ingredient that commands attention and rewards the adventurous nose.


Hyraceum is a prized tool in the animalic and niche perfumery world, used to add raw, primal depth to chypres, orientals, leathers, and tobacco-forward compositions. It is sustainably collected without harm to hyrax populations, making it an ethical alternative to other animal musks. Fragrenza's Hyraceum collection showcases premium dupes of the world's boldest animalic fragrances — rare character at an approachable price.

Amarena Cherry

Obsessed with cherry? If you want to really amp up the cherry scent, this Tom Ford Lost Cherry dupe will give Lost Cherry a run for its money. Black cherry, cherry syrup, and cherry liqueur all mingle together for an indulgent cherry overdose that’s complemented by notes of almond, tonka bean, Turkish rose, and jasmine sambac.

Musk, Amber, Animalic Smells

Hyraceum Other names: Pierre d'Afrique, Africa Stone

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