Candles have been around for a very long time. It is believed that the Egyptians where the first to use candles as a way to light their homes and for traveling at night. There is also the belief that Ancient Romans may have used candles before then. Who knew that candles would evolve into the beautifuul works of art that they are today. And that they would be used to represent so many different occassions. Today candles are still used for religious reasons as well as for decorating and gifts. Tallow or other wise known as melted animal fat and beeswax was used to make candles [chandlers] during the Roman age around 3000 B.C. That may not have been such a pleasant smell but it was more for the light it produced than the scent.
History shows that earlier civilizations made wicked candles out of wax made from plants and insects. How interesting is that? Japanese candles were made from wax taken from tree nuts. In the middle ages beeswax was introduced in Europe which burns cleaner. It also smelled alot better than the tallow. Candle making was also done in kitchens and sold in small shops.
American colonial women were the first to introduce candlemaking in america made from bayberry bushes that had a sweet smell or aroma to them. Paraffinwax was introduced in the 1850's made from petroleum. It had no ordor, was bluish in color and burned clean. This wax is widely used today. The 20th century broght candle making to where it is today. Than come in an array of shapes, sizes, colors and scents. Sybean candles were also brought to the light producing the soy candles which many people find healthier to burn. They burn slower than paraffin wax.
I wiil continue to dig deeper into the history of candles soon.
Until next time Happy Candle Shopping...
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