Two young men from Haa Alif Ihavandhoo have discovered what is believed to be a valuable piece of white ambergris, locally known as Hudanbaru, during a morning fishing trip.
The discovery took place between 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. while the duo was out at sea for recreational fishing. Speaking about the find, one of the youths estimated the piece to weigh between 3 and 5 kilograms.
Ambergris is a naturally occurring, rare substance produced in the digestive system of sperm whales and eventually discharged into the ocean. It is highly prized on the global market, particularly in the fragrance industry where it serves as a fixative in luxury perfumes, as well as in traditional medicine.
In the Maldives, ambergris is classified into several distinct types depending on its quality, including white (Hudanbaru), tree-patterned (Gas-anbaru), and black (Kalu-anbaru). Hudanbaru is regarded as the highest grade due to its refined aroma and lighter color, which develop after floating in the ocean for extended periods under exposure to sunlight and salt water.
