Posted on October 15, 2023

From ancient rituals to modern-day relaxation, scented candles have woven a fragrant tapestry throughout human history. Join us on a scented journey through time as we explore the fascinating history of these aromatic companions. At Roselyta, we're not just purveyors of scented candles; we're storytellers, and each candle we create is a chapter in the aromatic narrative of our world.

The Early Beginnings of Scented Candles

Our journey into the history of scented candles takes us back over 5,000 years to the banks of the Nile River in ancient Egypt. It is here that the very concept of candles as we know them today first emerged. The Egyptians, with their keen eye for innovation, crafted the earliest forms of candles from beeswax, a precious substance symbolising purity.

These early candles served a utilitarian purpose, providing a reliable source of light in the ancient world. But it didn't take long for the Egyptians to discover that they could elevate the experience by infusing their candles with fragrant oils. By adding scents like lavender and rosemary, they transformed their candles into vessels of not only illumination but also sensory delight.

As the practise of scenting candles evolved, it became intertwined with religious rituals. The Egyptians believed that the fragrant smoke rising from the burning candles served as a conduit to the divine, a way to communicate with the gods. Thus, the aromatic journey of scented candles had begun.

The Middle Ages - Aromatic Alchemy

Moving forward in time to the Middle Ages, we find that the use of scented candles had evolved into a form of alchemy. Monasteries and churches became hubs for candle production, and the resident monks became skilled alchemists, experimenting with various scents and oils. Their goal was not only to create pleasing aromas, but to harness the therapeutic potential of these fragrances.

During this era, candles played a pivotal role in spiritual practices. Each scent had a symbolic meaning, and the burning of specific scented candles was believed to invoke spiritual virtues. Lavender, for instance, was associated with tranquility and purity, while frankincense was thought to aid in meditation and prayer.

Aromatherapy, in its nascent form, began to take root. The combination of essential oils and candlelight was recognized for its ability to heal both the body and the soul. This marked a significant step towards the modern practice of aromatherapy.

The Renaissance and the Age of Discovery

As we transition to the Renaissance period, we witness not only a resurgence of the arts and sciences but also advancements in candle-making techniques. The introduction of materials like tallow and stearin improved the quality of candles, making them burn longer and more evenly.

This era also coincided with the Age of Discovery, where explorers ventured to distant lands, bringing back exotic spices, herbs, and aromatic treasures. These newfound scents found their way into candle production, expanding the palette of fragrances available. The scented candle industry began to flourish as the demand for these aromatic delights grew.

Scented candles became more than just a practical source of light; they were now decorative pieces adorning the homes of the wealthy and elite. The use of fragrant candles during social gatherings and romantic evenings became a symbol of sophistication and luxury.

The Victorian Era - Romanticism and Elegance

The Victorian Era, marked by opulence and elegance, saw scented candles take on an even more significant role in society. Lavish scented candles adorned ornate candelabras, creating an air of sophistication in Victorian homes. These candles were not just objects; they were expressions of art and craftsmanship.

Aromatherapy experienced a resurgence during this period. The Victorians firmly believed in the power of scent to improve overall well-being. Scented candles, infused with fragrances such as rose and lavender, were used to create an environment of relaxation and stress relief. These candles were not merely decorative; they were tools for enhancing the quality of life.

Candles also played a romantic role in Victorian society. They were an integral part of courtship rituals, often used to create an intimate atmosphere during romantic encounters. The scents of roses and vanilla wafting through Victorian parlors set the stage for love and romance.

The Modern Era - A Scented Revolution

As we move into the 20th century, we witness significant innovations in both candle-making techniques and fragrance extraction methods. Paraffin wax, derived from petroleum refining, became the dominant material for candle production due to its affordability and accessibility.

Scented candles experienced a renaissance of their own during this period. While they had been primarily functional for much of their history, they now became an art form. The range of available fragrances expanded from traditional scents to a diverse array inspired by nature, seasons, and moods.

In recent decades, the introduction of eco-friendly materials like soy wax and blends of Rapseed & Coconut waxs have further diversified the options for candle enthusiasts. These modern scented candles not only offer exquisite aromas but also align with environmentally conscious values.

Roselyta's Contribution to the Fragrance Story

At Roselyta, we're proud to be part of the rich history of scented candles. Each of our candles is a testament to the centuries of tradition and innovation that precedes us. We meticulously craft our candles with the finest ingredients, infusing them with fragrances inspired by the enchanting beauty of our countrysides and the pleasures of life

Our commitment to quality ensures that every Roselyta candle is not just a source of fragrance but a work of art. We believe in the transformative power of scent and the ability of our candles to elevate your space and enhance your well-being.

Conclusion - Join Us on This Fragrant Journey

As we conclude our aromatic journey through the history of scented candles, we invite you to join us in celebrating the timeless allure of fragrance. Explore our collection of scented candles, each one a unique blend of aromas that tell a story, evoke emotions, and create memories.

At Roselyta, we believe that every candle is a chapter in your own fragrant narrative. Whether you're seeking relaxation, inspiration, or simply a touch of elegance in your daily life, our candles are here to accompany you on your scented journey.

If you have any questions, want to learn more about our candles, or simply wish to share your own scented experiences, we welcome you to reach out to us at [email protected]. Let's continue to explore the world of fragrance together.