The Philosopher’s Stone

Alchemy was the art of combining ingredients at the right time and temperature. Our logo is inspired by the philosopher’s stone, which was believed to be an alchemical substance - a tincture or powder. The philosopher’s stone was believed to be a substance that could transform metals into gold, and prolong life. Who does not want to live longer while remaining rich? Assuming it’s in good health. Alchemists wanted to share in the riches of a life at court, and so many claimed to be able to create the philosopher’s stone to win the graces of the queen or king. Many probably also believed they could if they just tried hard enough, though failing could be quite dangerous and result in a death sentence.

For those whom immediately thought of Harry Potter, J.K. Rowling was certainly inspired by the history of alchemy. Also, fun fact, Nicholas Flamel was a real person. He was a French scribe who lived in the 14th and 15th centuries. Though there is no evidence of him as an alchemist, there are legends that claim he would have discovered the philosopher’s stone.

A circle (representing wholeness or unity)

A square (representing the four elements: earth, air, fire, water)

A triangle (symbolizing the trinity or /spirit)

Sources: L. Kassell, “Reading for the philosophers’ stone”, Chapter 7 in the book by M. Frasca-Spada, N. Jardine (Eds.), “Books and the sciences in history”, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge (2000), pp. 132-150