Once upon a time, nestled in the pages of age-old scriptures, two aromatic resins played pivotal roles: frankincense and myrrh. These fragrances, which appear in both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, have left an indelible mark on the cultural practices surrounding gift-giving, particularly during the holidays. But how did they transition from biblical texts to becoming quintessential holiday gifts, and what role do they play in the world of designer fragrances today?

Frankincense and myrrh are mentioned several times in biblical texts. The most famous instance is in the New Testament, when the three wise men included as gifts frankincense and myrrh. 

In the Old Testament, frankincense and myrrh also made appearances. They were used in religious ceremonies, as fragrant offerings, and even as part of the anointing oil in the Tabernacle.

Given their spiritual and cultural importance, it's no wonder these fragrances gradually became synonymous with gift-giving, especially during significant events or festivals. Over time, the gesture of gifting fragrances during holidays likely evolved as a nod to these ancient practices, laying the foundation for today's tradition of gifting perfumes and colognes.

So where do these precious resins come from today? Frankincense is tapped from the Boswellia tree, while myrrh is harvested from the Commiphora tree. Both trees are native to the Arabian Peninsula and regions of Africa. The process of harvesting is both art and science; incisions are made in the tree's bark, releasing the resin, which then hardens and is scraped off to be processed.

In the world of modern perfumery, frankincense and myrrh continue to be celebrated ingredients. Their warm, balsamic notes add depth and richness to many fragrances, creating a bridge between ancient traditions and contemporary tastes.

Designers and perfume houses, recognizing the rich history and alluring scent profiles of these ingredients, have incorporated them into various iconic fragrances. Frankincense, with its woody and spicy aroma, often serves as a base or middle note, giving longevity to perfumes. Myrrh, on the other hand, has a slightly sweet, smoky aroma and often complements other oriental and resinous notes in perfumes.

Some famous fragrances that boast these ingredients include Tom Ford's Sahara Noir (with frankincense), Etro's Messe de Minuit (a combination of both myrrh and frankincense), and Memo Paris' Marfa (which features a touch of frankincense).

The tradition of gifting fragrances during the holidays likely finds its roots in ancient times, with the spiritual and cultural significance of frankincense and myrrh. These resins, once gifts for kings and deities, now grace our perfume shelves, bridging the gap between antiquity and modern-day luxury. This holiday season, as you spritz on your favorite fragrance or unwrap a new bottle, remember the rich history behind that scent and the millennia-old tradition it upholds.