1. Rebis: This figure merges elements of the Sun and Moon, symbolizing one of the main alchemical concepts — the union of opposites. Rebis often holds a scepter and orb, indicating power and the completion of the process. 2. Ouroboros: A serpent or dragon biting its own tail, symbolizing the eternal cycle of nature, infinity, and completeness. Ouroboros may represent the self-sufficiency of the philosopher’s stone and its ability to renew and perpetuate itself endlessly.
3. Circle or circle with a dot in the center: This symbol is used to denote the philosopher’s stone and represents the idea of unity and perfection.
4. Red lion and white eagle: These symbols are sometimes used to represent alchemical stages in the creation of the philosopher’s stone (reddening and whitening), and their union can symbolize the completion of transformation.
All these symbols — whether Rebis, Ouroboros, or others — represent the culmination of the complex alchemical transformation process, where matter and spirit unite to create the supreme substantial being — the philosopher’s stone.
1. Chrysopoeia: This symbol may be depicted as a circle or serpentine shape that contains or surrounds other elements. Chrysopoeia represents the achievement of gold from base metals and is considered an expression of the mystery of transmutation.
2. Phoenix: A bird rising from its ashes, symbolizing regeneration and immortality. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the philosopher’s stone, which endows matter with new, nobler qualities.
3. Violet phase (Violetation): In some alchemical traditions, the final stage before obtaining the philosopher’s stone was marked by a transformative violet phase, emphasizing spiritual transmutation and the quintessence.
4. Cubic stone or Foundation stone: The cubic shape is sometimes used to signify the ultimate stability and completion symbolized by the philosopher’s stone, serving as an important architectural symbol of the process.
5. Astrological symbols: Since alchemy is closely linked with astrology, the completion of the process may include astrological symbols such as planetary signs (Sun, Moon, Venus, etc.), indicating harmony achieved