Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, is often depicted draped in gold from head to toe, but there was a lesser-known Cleopatra for whom gold was more than a mark of beauty and power — it was a scientific obsession.
Cleopatra the Alchemist also lived in the Egyptian city of Alexandria, some 300 years after the death of the famous queen, and was...read more
Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, is often depicted draped in gold from head to toe, but there was a lesser-known Cleopatra for whom gold was more than a mark of beauty and power — it was a scientific obsession.
Cleopatra the Alchemist also lived in the Egyptian city of Alexandria, some 300 years after the death of the famous queen, and was thought to be one of four female alchemists who could produce the philosopher’s stone — the mythical ability to turn base metals into gold. Surviving texts testify to her work in this field. One, authored by Cleopatra herself, features the ouroboros — a circular drawing of a snake swallowing its own tail, a symbol of eternal renewal and rebirth. Chances are she never succeeded in her goal, but the inventions of Cleopatra and other female alchemists of her time helped lay the groundwork for modern chemistry.
You don’t need to devote your life to gold to appreciate its allure, however. Any woman from any century would be captivated by these golden pieces. The Alchemist’s Dream Collection is a striking pendant, earring and bracelet set that promises to transform the person who wears it. Italian made of .925 sterling silver finished in 18K yellow gold, the grooved texture captures the light in any setting, while the circular design is a graceful nod to infinity and the ouroboros, a favored symbol of alchemists. Drape the woman you love in these shimmering pieces, and experience first-hand the age-old mystique of gold.
