Rose absolute is the type of rose essential oil that is obtained by applying a chemical solvent to fresh rose petals. The solvent extracts the oil from the petals and allows collection of the fragrant oil. In general, rose is one of the costlier essential oils available, but rose absolute is more affordable than rose otto -- the essential oil collected by the more expensive method of steam distillation. When purchasing rose absolute, look for oil with a deep yellow color and a mellow scent of roses.