Sunday, June 23, 2019

Alchemy Jewelry, Symbology And Practice

By Andrew Watson


When it comes to Alchemy, it is actually a branch of philosophy which is rather ancient. For example, while a number of arts and craftsmen now produce Alchemy Jewelry with different associated symbols, there are others whom organize Alchemic dances and other events. As such, the practices and principles associated with the practice can take on a number of different shapes and sizes though most have one thing in common, using balance to create change.

The practice, one which has also been promoted as a proto-scientific one originated in the earliest days of Greco-Egypt during the first few centuries AD. Since then, alchemists and scientists have attempted to purify, mature and perfect various metals and other materials. A common aim among these individuals was to turn base metals into noble metals such as that of gold and silver.

The English language does not exactly define the term though provides a description as related to the ancient Europeans working in this area. While this is the case, there were also Muslim and Eastern Alchemists working at the time. Some of these individuals also followed the 12th century Renaissance scientific community and played an integral role in several early scientific experiments and aspirations.

European and Islamic alchemists created a structure related to basic lab techniques, experimental methods, terminology and theory, some still in use. However, the objects continued the belief of antiquity in the four elements and guarded the work in secrecy including cryptic messages and cypher symbolism. It is believed the works were guided by Hermetic principles and related to religion, mythology and magic.

Discussing the practice in the present world is generally split into an examination of esoteric spiritual aspects and practical esoteric applications. For, despite the arguments of scholars whom believe the aspects need be understood as contemporary, esoteric spirituality and applications are still being pursued by historians of the early scientific community. Most often, by individuals who examined these aspects with regards to charlatanism, medicine and early chemistry and the religious and philosophical contexts in which the events occurred.

Esoteric applications and spirituality have also made an impact on arts and literature. While this is the case, von Franz, a well known philosopher believes the split between the exoteric and esoteric practices dates back to Western traditions.

While the practice remains closely related to magic, others suggest early alchemy embraced ideas much larger than magic and mysticism. For example, it is believed that early medieval and modern practices embraced a set of specific goals and techniques. In either case, when individuals hear of the connection between magic and alchemy, most see either practice as being at the very least, deceptive. While this is the case, there have been few whom have been successful in disproving the work of alchemists.

Other ideas with regards to alchemy were developed more recently beginning in he 18th century. While all of these practices have been denounced as invalid within a specific context, no one has provided proof as to this being the case. As such, whether interested in alchemy, magic, mysticism or all three, these can often be interesting topics of study regardless of age, belief or state of mind.




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