Why Is Ambergris So Expensive?
Ambergris is incredibly rare. It’s estimated that only a tiny fraction of sperm whales produce it, and much of it never reaches the shore. Furthermore, due to international laws protecting whales, ambergris cannot be harvested directly from the animals. Only pieces naturally expelled and washed ashore can be legally collected in some countries.
Its rarity, combined with its role in luxury perfumery, drives its astronomical price. A single lump like the one found by the couple could be sold to perfume houses in Europe or the Middle East, where demand remains strong.
Scientific and Historical Fascination
Ambergris has fascinated scientists and explorers for centuries. In medieval Europe, it was believed to have medicinal properties and was sometimes used in food and drink. The 17th-century diarist Samuel Pepys famously recorded enjoying ambergris-flavored eggs.
Modern chemical analysis shows that ambergris contains ambrein, an alcohol that stabilizes and extends the life of fragrances, making it invaluable to perfumers. Synthetic alternatives exist, but many luxury brands still value the natural material for its complexity.
A Rare and Lucky Find
For the couple, the discovery was entirely unexpected. They are now in contact with brokers and collectors to determine the best way to sell it. While such finds are rare, they do occasionally make headlines — in 2016, three Omani fishermen found a 80-kilogram lump worth millions of pounds.
This story serves as a reminder that sometimes the most valuable treasures can be hidden in plain sight, waiting for an observant passerby to notice.
