The Story
Why it exists.
Raw Gold emerged in 2023 as Thomas de Monaco’s bold anthem of eternal youth, oscillating between innocence and temptation. Perfumer Maurus Bachmann, alongside LUZI, set out to capture desire’s reign by weaving orris, davana and cedar into a luminous opening, then layering suede, guaiac wood and patchouli for depth, before grounding the piece with vanilla, benzoin and saffron. The result is a unisex extrait that feels both intimate and expansive, echoing the brand’s photographic precision.
If this were a song
Community picks
Nightcall
Kavinsky
The Beginning
Raw Gold emerged in 2023 as Thomas de Monaco’s bold anthem of eternal youth, oscillating between innocence and temptation. Perfumer Maurus Bachmann, alongside LUZI, set out to capture desire’s reign by weaving orris, davana and cedar into a luminous opening, then layering suede, guaiac wood and patchouli for depth, before grounding the piece with vanilla, benzoin and saffron. The result is a unisex extrait that feels both intimate and expansive, echoing the brand’s photographic precision.
The choice of orris absolute gives the fragrance a powdery iris heart that feels like light passing through a memory, while davana adds a herbaceous sweetness that brightens the cedar base. Suede introduces a tactile leather nuance, and guaiac wood contributes smoky resin, creating a contrast with earthy patchouli. The warm base of vanilla absolute, Siam benzoin and saffron provides a lingering sweetness and spice, turning the scent into a timeless, youthful statement.
The Evolution
The opening bursts with fresh cedarwood, instantly grounding the senses, while davana lifts with a sweet, herbaceous buzz and orris absolute whispers a powdery iris aura, conjuring a sun‑lit studio. Within minutes, the heart unfurls: suede spreads like brushed leather, guaiac wood adds a smoky resinous depth, and patchouli deepens the earthiness, crafting a tactile middle that feels like a well‑worn coat draped over a warm shoulder. As the fragrance settles, vanilla absolute melts into creamy amber, Siam benzoin glows resinously, and saffron threads golden spice through the finish, leaving a lingering powder‑leather warmth that clings long after the day ends. Longevity stretches beyond ten hours, with the core warmth persisting well into the night, making the drydown a memorable, luxurious echo of the initial spark.
Cultural Impact
Since its 2023 launch, Raw Gold has been celebrated for marrying powdery iris with leather suede, a combination that feels both nostalgic and forward‑looking. Wearers note its bold projection and ten‑plus hour longevity, making it a staple for those who enjoy a statement scent that doesn’t fade. Its blend of traditional raw extracts and modern synthetics has placed it alongside contemporary niche favourites, earning a loyal following among collectors who value depth over flash.
The House
Switzerland · Est. 2022
Thomas de Monaco Parfums blends photographic precision with olfactory art. Founded by photographer Thomas de Monaco, the house offers a compact portfolio that balances classic structures with contemporary twists. Each scent arrives in a clean bottle that reflects the brand’s minimalist studio, while the formulas draw on rare raw materials and modern aromatic molecules. The result is a line of fragrances that feels both intimate and expansive, inviting wearers to explore memory through scent.
If this were a song
Community picks
The fragrance feels like a midnight cityscape: sleek, smoky, with a warm amber pulse. The primary track, "Nightcall" by Kavinsky, mirrors its nocturnal confidence and electric edge.
Nightcall
Kavinsky



























