Gabriela Chelariu
A Romanian-born dsm-firmenich perfumer based in New York, connecting pharmacy and memories of nature through vivid, multifaceted materials.
About Gabriela Chelariu
Gabriela Chelariu is a dsm-firmenich perfumer who connects memories of Romanian seasons to contemporary fine fragrance. Melting snow and new shoots, wet soil, linden blossom, and green tomato leaves formed her first olfactory calendar.
Career
Chelariu studied pharmacy with the intention of becoming a pharmacist, but work in an aroma-chemicals research laboratory during her final year redirected her toward scent. A visit to Grasse confirmed the decision, and she moved to the United States in 2000. Beginning as a perfumer's laboratory assistant, she trained into the profession and in 2015 joined Firmenich alongside former mentor Honorine Blanc; she is now a Principal Perfumer in New York.
Creative Style & Philosophy
Attention learned in her grandmother's garden guides her toward the contradictory facets inside fruit, flowers, and leaves. She is drawn to materials such as blackcurrant bud that hold juiciness and wildness, brightness and shadow at once. Creation never happens in a vacuum: trust among perfumers, developers, and brand partners is part of the work.
Signature Works
- *Chasing Sunsets* — Citrus, florals, and amber composed in collaboration as the emotion of changing evening light.
