The Philosopher's Stone (Latin: lapis philosophorum) conjures elements of primal lore and eternal powers. In history and legend, the Philosopher's Stone is sought by many alchemists for such purposes as healing, immortality and transmutation of base metals into precious ones.
The fabled Philosophers' Stone can produce the Elixir of Life, the secret to immortality or extreme longevity; a panacea for all disease; and effect the transmutation of base metals to noble. For some, it's the ultimate goal of alchemic research and experimentation.
While regions such as China, Egypt and Arabia also use alchemy for centuries, the term 'Philosophers' Stone' is used primarily in the West. It appears in isolated early medieval texts.
A mystic stone is mentioned by 5th century BCE philosopher Democritus but it's not known if this is the same mystic stone. Mystic stones in history include an ancient rock on Amazon Island, known today as Giresun Island in the Black Sea; and the Green Stone of Hattusa.
A rock is mentioned by Mary the Jewess (c. 100 AD) as igneous, and Zosimos (c. 300 AD) in Alexandria calls it "the stone that is not a stone". It's not named philosophers' stone until the 14th century, arguably first mentioned c. 1130 AD under another name.
In Jungian analytical psychology, the lapis philosophorum is an image of the beginning. Metaphorically the Stone is both inception and end, as one often comes full circle. The Stone represents cycles and the quintessence of life itself.
Islamic alchemists pick it up after the 642 conquest of Egypt. In Arabian theory the Elixir of Life is often thought to be a dry red powder (also known as al-kibrit al-ahmar, red sulfur). It's considered a mystical substance of multiple powers.
By 1025, Islamic practitioners are convinced metal transmutation is not possible. Europe continues to hold on to the idea of a metal-changing magical substance until the early modern period. Isaac Newton risks his scientific reputation seeking a way to change metals into gold.
While the quest for the Philosopher's Stone ignites speculative imaginations today, many consider it an impossible pursuit. There are always alchemists who forever try to achieve the impossible.
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