Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ : A Violet Woody Signature in Fragrance Formulation

Galbora
Dec 24, 2025
2 min read

Introduction to Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ

Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ is a key ingredient in modern perfumery, valued for its distinctive woody, floral, and violet character. Entirely synthetic and not found in nature, this material is widely used to impart softness, volume, and elegance to fragrance compositions. Its versatility and strong diffusion make it a fundamental building block in many floral and woody accords.

Olfactive Profile

Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ belongs to the Woody • Floral olfactive family and is characterized by the following facets:

Soft, powdery violet nuances
Orris (iris root) tonalities
A smooth, understated woody background

This olfactive structure gives the material a rounded, balanced character with a refined and elegant presence, making it particularly suitable for the heart of floral and woody fragrances.

Chemical Identity

The chemical name of Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ is:

3-Methyl-4-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohex-2-enyl)but-3-en-2-one

Its molecular formula is C₁₄H₂₂O, and it is also known by the synonym:

3-Methyl-4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-yl)-3-buten-2-one

This material does not occur in nature and is produced exclusively through chemical synthesis, allowing for consistent quality and predictable performance in formulations.

Applications in Perfumery

Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ is used in a wide range of floral fragrances, with a particular emphasis on violet compositions. It blends harmoniously with:

Woody accords
Leathery notes
Oriental structures

Within a formula, it contributes softness, volume, and elegance, helping to unify different olfactive elements and create a smooth, cohesive fragrance profile.

Diffusion and Tenacity

From a performance perspective, Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ is highly effective:

Bloom diffusivity: Very diffusive
Tenacity on blotter: Greater than one week

These properties ensure a strong and lasting olfactive presence, even when used at controlled dosage levels.

Substantivity

The material demonstrates good substantivity across multiple substrates:

Skin: Good
Dry fabric: Good
Wet fabric: Good
Hair: Good

This consistent performance supports its use in both fine fragrance and functional perfumery applications.

Stability Profile

According to the provided data, Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ shows good stability across a broad pH range and in many product categories:

Fine Fragrance: Good
Fabric Softener (pH 3): Good
Antiperspirants (pH 3.5): Good
Toiletry Applications (pH 6): Good
Liquid Detergent (pH 9): Good
Soap (pH 10): Good
Powder Detergent (pH 11): Good
Bleach (pH 14): Poor

Typical Use Level

The typical use level of Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ in fragrance formulations is below 10%, where it can already deliver a significant olfactive impact.

Technical Data

Appearance: Pale yellow liquid
Molecular Weight: 206.33
Flash Point: 118 °C
Vapor Pressure: 1.30 Pa at 25 °C
GC Purity: 90% minimum isomers
CAS Number: 127-51-5
FEMA / GRAS Number: 2714
CLogP: 4.84

Conclusion

Methyl Ionone Gamma EQ is a versatile violet–woody material with excellent diffusion, good substantivity, and reliable stability across a wide range of applications. By delivering softness, volume, and refinement, it plays a vital role in floral especially violet fragrance compositio

ns and remains a trusted component in modern perfumery.

This article was researched and written by Galbora.

Use of this content is permitted when citing the source.