When Were Scented Candles Invented?

When Were Scented Candles Invented?

At Past Scents Candle Co., we’re all about blending history, art, and a touch of mythology into every candle we create. But have you ever wondered when scented candles first flickered to life? The story of scented candles is a journey through time, one that spans ancient civilizations, evolving from simple sources of light to the beautifully crafted home accessories we cherish today.

The Dawn of Candle Making: Illuminating the Past

The roots of candle making stretch back over 5,000 years, to the heart of ancient civilizations.

• Ancient Egypt: Imagine walking through the grand temples of ancient Egypt, where the earliest form of lighting came from rushlights—reeds soaked in animal fat. While these weren’t true candles, they paved the way for what was to come.
• Roman Empire: Fast forward to the Roman Empire, where the first true candles were born. Made by dipping rolled papyrus into melted tallow or beeswax, these candles served as both a practical source of light and a spiritual beacon during religious ceremonies. It’s fascinating to think that the soft glow of candles we enjoy today has its origins in these ancient rituals.

The First Scented Candles: A Fragrant Journey Through Time

The magic of scent was first woven into candles by ancient artisans in China and India—a beautiful blend of utility and sensory delight.

• Ancient China: In ancient China, candles were often infused with incense sticks, releasing a gentle aroma as they burned. Picture the soft, fragrant haze filling the air in a quiet temple or a noble’s home.
• Ancient India: Meanwhile, in India, candles were crafted from wax derived from boiling cinnamon bark, adding a warm, spicy scent to homes and temples. It’s inspiring to think that even in ancient times, people sought to fill their spaces with comforting, natural aromas.

Candles in the Middle Ages: Light and Luxury

As candle making evolved during the Middle Ages, the craft became more sophisticated. Beeswax candles, known for their clean burn and natural honey scent, were treasured but rare—often reserved for churches or the homes of the wealthy.

During the Renaissance, the world opened up with new trade routes, bringing exotic spices, herbs, and oils to Europe. Imagine the excitement of a candle maker in that era, blending these new fragrances into their creations, much like how we carefully select our scents today.

The 19th and 20th Centuries: Scented Candles for the Modern World

The scented candles we know and love began to take shape in the 19th century, thanks to innovations like stearic acid, which made candles harder and less smoky. This period marked the beginning of scented candles becoming more accessible, though they still held a certain luxury.

With the arrival of paraffin wax in the 20th century, candles became more affordable and widespread. This wax, coupled with synthetic fragrance oils, allowed for a vast array of scents, setting the stage for the scented candle revolution.

Today’s Scented Candles: A Blend of Past and Present

Today, scented candles are more than just a source of light; they’re an experience, a way to connect with memories, moods, and even myths. At Past Scents Candle Co., we’re proud to continue this ancient tradition, crafting each candle with care and passion. Our blend of coconut and soy wax, paired with carefully chosen fragrance oils, is a nod to the rich history of candle making—a history that’s as much about the heart as it is about the craft.

Scented candles, once a luxury for the few, are now a beloved part of our daily lives. They bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of history into our homes, reminding us that something as simple as a candle can carry the legacy of thousands of years.

As you light one of our candles, take a moment to appreciate the journey it represents—from ancient temples to your living room, from the hands of history to yours. Every flicker, every scent, is a connection to the past, crafted to illuminate your present.