Have you ever wondered why a candle’s scent evolves the longer it burns? Discover the magic of the olfactory pyramid and learn how to read fragrance notes like a true expert.
Crafting a luxury candle is much like composing a beautiful piece of music or blending a fine perfume. At Candle & Bloom, we don’t just mix scents; we design olfactory experiences. When you light one of our handcrafted candles, the fragrance doesn’t hit you all at once. Instead, it unfolds in three distinct acts, revealing different layers as the wax melts. This journey is known as the “Olfactory Pyramid” or “Scent Pyramid”.Here is how to understand the complex anatomy of your favorite scent.
Scent Pyramid
The Top Notes (The First Impression)
The top notes are the introduction to the candle’s story. This is the very first thing you smell when you take the lid off the jar or during the first few minutes of lighting the wick. These molecules are light, vibrant, and evaporate quickly, designed to instantly capture your attention and spark emotion.

Common Top Notes: Zesty Lemon, sparkling Bergamot, fresh Mint, and crisp Eucalyptus.
The Heart Notes (The Soul of the Candle)
As the top notes gently fade and the wax forms a warm melt pool, the heart notes—also called middle notes—begin to bloom. This layer represents the true identity and character of the candle. It is full-bodied, complex, and makes up the majority of the scent you experience while the candle is burning in your living room.

Common Heart Notes: Velvet Rose, calming French Lavender, spicy Cinnamon, and rich Jasmine.
The Base Notes (The Lingering Memory)
The final act of the fragrance is the base. These are the heaviest molecules in the blend. You might not notice them immediately, but they are the foundation that holds the entire scent together. Even after you blow out your Candle & Bloom jar, the base notes are the lingering memory that stays in the room, providing depth, warmth, and lasting comfort.

Common Base Notes: Earthy Sandalwood, sweet Vanilla Bean, golden Amber, and dark Cedarwood.
























