Welcome to our blog post, where we look into the fascinating history of scented candles. From their early origins to their modern-day popularity, scented candles have illuminated and enriched our lives for centuries. Join us as we explore the journey of these aromatic lights and learn how they evolved over time.
Early Origins of Candles
Candles have been used for over 5,000 years, although their precise origins remain unclear. The earliest known candles were made by the Ancient Egyptians, who created rushlights by soaking reeds in melted animal fat. However, these rushlights lacked a wick, distinguishing them from true candles.
The Advent of Wicked Candles
The development of wicked candles is credited to the ancient Romans, who, before 3,000 B.C., began dipping rolled papyrus in melted tallow or beeswax. These candles were used to light homes, assist travelers, and perform religious ceremonies. Around the same time, Egyptians also adopted wicked candles.
Various other early civilizations developed their versions of wicked candles. The Chinese molded candles in paper tubes using rolled rice paper for wicks and wax from indigenous insects combined with seeds. In Japan, candles were made from tree nut wax, and in India, wax was extracted from boiling the fruit of the cinnamon tree.
Candles played significant roles in religious ceremonies, such as Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, dating back to 165 B.C.
Middle Ages Innovations
During the Middle Ages, Western cultures primarily used tallow candles made from animal fat. A significant advancement came with the introduction of beeswax candles in Europe. Beeswax burned cleanly without producing smoke and emitted a pleasant scent, making it ideal for church ceremonies. However, due to its high cost, only the wealthy could afford beeswax candles for home use.
By the 13th century, candlemaking had become a craft in England and France, with chandlers making and selling candles from small shops or going from house to house.
Colonial Contributions
In Colonial America, women discovered that boiling bayberry bushes produced a sweet-smelling wax that burned cleanly. Although extracting the wax was labor-intensive, it marked America's first significant contribution to candlemaking.
The late 18th century saw a major shift with the whaling industry's growth, leading to the widespread availability of spermaceti wax candles from sperm whale oil. This wax burned brighter and cleaner than tallow or beeswax and was harder, making it more durable in warmer climates.
19th Century Advances
The 19th century brought significant developments in candlemaking. French chemist Michel Eugene Chevreul's discovery of stearic acid from animal fatty acids led to stearin wax, which burned cleanly and was durable. Stearin candles remain popular in Europe today.
In 1834, Joseph Morgan's invention of a machine for continuous candle production revolutionized the industry, making candles more affordable. The introduction of paraffin wax in the 1850s, derived from petroleum, further enhanced candle production with its cleaner burn and low cost. The addition of stearic acid overcame paraffin's low melting point.
The 20th Century and Beyond
The mid-1980s marked a surge in decorative and scented candles, leading to a broader array of shapes, sizes, and colors.
The 1990s experienced an unprecedented candle craze, with new waxes like soybean and palm wax being developed. Soy wax, softer and slower burning than paraffin, and palm wax became popular alternatives.
Today's Candles
Modern scented candles are no longer just a light source. They symbolize celebrations, ignite romance, soothe senses, honor ceremonies, and enhance home decor. Scented candles, in particular, have become beloved for their ability to create ambiance and evoke emotions.
By understanding the rich history and evolution of candles, we can appreciate the timeless appeal and continued innovation in the world of scented candles. Whether used for relaxation, decoration, or ceremony, candles remain a cherished part of our lives, casting a warm and inviting glow for all to enjoy.