Alchemy · The Self
Symbol · Science & Alchemy
Alchemical Sun
Sol / Aurum
A circle with a central dot, used for the Sun and gold in alchemical notation.
What it meansIn Agrippa's 1651 English text, gold belongs to the Sun for its splendour. Solar things foster glory, victory and courage.
The FindingIn his letter to Boyle of 28 February 1678/9, Newton describes aqua regis dissolving gold: alchemists' solar metal was not chemically untouchable.
Symbol · Science & Alchemy
Alchemical Sulfur
The Combustible Principle
An alchemical sign for sulphur: a triangle above a cross.
What it meansIn Paracelsus's Opus Paramirum, sulphur is what burns. Different bodily substances have different sulphurs, which can be revealed and distinguished through separation.
The FindingIn 1531 Paracelsus distinguished many sulphurs: blood, flesh and organs each have their own, rather than sharing one universal combustible substance.