Alchemy Circles

Alchemy: An Ancient Science of Transformation

Symbolism in Alchemy

Meaning and Significance

Alchemy, the ancient science of transformation, has a rich history filled with enigmatic symbols and metaphors. These symbols, often depicted in allegorical form, play a pivotal role in understanding the alchemical process and its profound teachings about inner transformation and the pursuit of the elusive elixir.

22 Alchemy Symbols and Their Meanings

Below are 22 prominent alchemy symbols and their associated meanings: 1. **Athanor:** A furnace representing the container in which alchemical transformations occur. 2. **Black Crow:** A symbol of the putrefaction and decomposition stage of the alchemical process. 3. **Caduceus:** A staff entwined with two serpents, representing the balance between opposites. 4. **Dragon:** A mythical creature symbolizing the primal energy and transformative power within. 5. **Emerald Tablet:** A legendary text attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, containing alchemical wisdom. 6. **Golden Fleece:** A symbol of the purified and enlightened state sought by alchemists. 7. **Green Lion:** A symbol of the corrosive and transformative nature of mercury. 8. **Hermaphrodite:** A symbol of the union of masculine and feminine principles. 9. **Hyle:** A primordial substance representing the unformed matter at the beginning of the alchemical process. 10. **Materia Prima:** The base material or substance undergoing alchemical transformation. 11. **Mercury:** The alchemical element associated with fluidity, transformation, and the mind. 12. **Philosopher's Stone:** The elusive substance believed to possess the power of transformation and immortality. 13. **Phoenix:** A mythical bird rising from its ashes, symbolizing rebirth and regeneration. 14. **Prima Materia:** See Materia Prima. 15. **Red Dragon:** A symbol of the fiery and passionate stage of the alchemical process. 16. **Regulus of Antimony:** A metallic substance used to test the purity of metals, symbolizing introspection and self-knowledge. 17. **Salt:** A symbol of the solid and stable foundation upon which alchemical transformations occur. 18. **Saturn:** The alchemical planet associated with lead, representing melancholy and old age. 19. **Serpent:** A symbol of wisdom, transformation, and the connection between the physical and spiritual realms. 20. **Sun:** A symbol of gold, vitality, and spiritual enlightenment. 21. **Sulfur:** A symbol of the active and transformative principle in alchemy. 22. **Unicorn:** A mythical creature symbolizing purity, grace, and the ability to penetrate illusion.