The Connection of the Philosopher's Stone and Alchemy

Many have at least heard of the philosopher's stone. However, few know what it is or realize is that it has long been considered rooted in fact rather than fiction. It was once highly sought after by alchemists who believed it to be something of great power.

The practice of alchemy is a mixture of chemistry, magic, astrology, and according to some even theology. In reality, however, mythology rather than theology might be more descriptive.

Originally, it was believed that alchemy was developed in the Far East. However, many historians disagree with that theory, claiming that it actually developed in ancient Egypt. Still others claim that it began in the Arab world.

It is possible that the concept of alchemy originated both in the west and the east since there are some inconsistencies between the way it was practiced in the two areas. Western alchemy seemed more rooted in ancient myth and ritual while Eastern alchemy dealt more with magic and astrology. The one thing that the two did have in common, however, was the scientific factor of chemistry.

An important concept of alchemy is based upon the idea of philosopher's stone, which many believed had the power to turn base metals into precious ones; most predominantlythat of gold. According to the book Mysteries of the World, a famous third century alchemist named Zosimos von Panopolis actually described how to change metal into gold a series of books that he wrote.

If that was indeed accurate, it would appear to be the earliest documentation of the practice of alchemy. Therefore, it seems that both Western and Eastern alchemy might have gotten there start there rather than with the Persian alchemist Geber of the eighth century.