In his search for the “Philosopher’s Stone” that would transmute base metals into silver and gold, alchemy took on many philosophical, religious, and mystical overtones. These and dozens of other facets of alchemy are explored here with enormous insight in this classic work. It begins with the first alchemists and goes on to discuss apparatus, signs, symbols, secret terms, and more. Ranging over two millennia of alchemical history, this book shows how, like astrology and witchcraft, alchemy was an integral part of the pre-scientific moral order, arousing the blind fear of mobs and the intellectual curiosity of learned men. Superbly illustrated with period engravings and well-written, this book on the origin and evolution of one of the most enduring and influential myths will be appreciated by students of alchemy, chemistry, the occult, and those looking for a fascinating new read.