Alchemy, the most intriguing of all occult sciences, first appeared in China. To date, no-one has ever succeeded in attaining its final goal. It harbours several mysteries and is at the origin of numerous chemical discoveries. It is not a science belonging to a bygone age, but a tradition that has been perpetuated since ancient times and even today has a number of dedicated followers. This mystical practice is based on the transformation of metals. Over the centuries, several initiates have tried to penetrate its secrets, and in doing so possess the ability to transform such imperfect matter as lead into gold, a metal both perfect and noble.

Its apparent scientific side, requiring an expert knowledge of nature and its laws, is inexorably tied in with a complementary philosophical approach. Alchemy represents an allegoric world where chemical experiments are closely related to symbolism. The origins of alchemy can be found in the texts attributed to the mythical Hermes, the father of the alchemists, the messenger of the Gods and master of the sciences.