Born in Ireland in 1627, Robert Boyle plays a significant role in the 17th century "scientific revolution". His groundbreaking...

Fulminating silver is a term applicable to a number of silver base d explosives which "fulminate" or detonate easily and violently,...

Arcanum Duplicatum is known by many names: sulphate of potash, arcanite, potash of sulfur, potassium sulfate. An inorganic compound, it...

Alum has a multi-toned nature. Alum denotes a group of chemical compounds characterized by double sulfate salts. Alums are used across...

Aluminum oxide or alumina (Al2O3) is the secret to the composition and allure of precious gems such as sapphire and ruby. This white,...

Barbara von Zweibrücken-Neuburg (1559 - 1618) is described as a striking personality. Intelligent, charismatic and formidable of will,...

Mordants are part of the dyeing process and help achieve vibrant colors. Dyeing fabrics goes back to the Stone Age. Mordants are also...

Nicolas Flamel (1330 - 1418) is a prosperous scribe shop owner in Paris, France. He marries well and lives an illustrious life. At his...

Lunar caustic ( lapis infernalis ), Höllenstein (hellstone) or silver nitrate ( argentinium nitrium ) is esteemed by alchemists of the...

Steam distillation develops from simple and fractional distillation techniques, and is first known to be documented among the Islamic...

Aqua Vitae literally means Water of Life in Latin. It's also called Elixir Vitae or Elixir of Life. Alchemists from ancient Alexandria...

The alembic is an essential alchemical tool. It functions like a retort, which in lead, iron or copper form has been used through...

Benefactors of literature cultivate intellectual centers of creativity and innovation. Here are five powerful historical patrons whose...

Who said that? Pseudos are writers whose work is falsely attributed to a major figure. The real writer can be one or more. Many share...

Maria or Mary the Jewess c. 100 AD is considered the first true alchemist. In her works she mentions a clear white herb growing on small...

Remarkable Islamic women influence Islamic history and inspire generations as leaders, orators, innovators, devotees, teachers, mothers...

The House of Wisdom in ancient and medieval Baghdad attracts scholars, philosophers, scientists, historians, writers and travelers, all...

Islamic alchemists and practitioners bridge the gap between the once-vibrant Alexandrian tradition and the friars of alchemy in medieval...

A vibrant golden spice, turmeric captivates kingdoms, heals the sick and rules the routes of the spice trade. The humble root has a long...

Smelting, the art of extracting metal from its ore through heating and extraction, has been a part of human civilization since c. 6000...