How did John Dee alter the ruby? This question delves into the fascinating world of alchemy and the life of one of its most influential figures, John Dee. Dee, an English mathematician, physician, and astrologer, was also a prominent alchemist during the Elizabethan era. His experiments and theories, particularly those involving precious gems like the ruby, have intrigued scholars for centuries. This article explores Dee’s contributions to the study of the ruby and the impact of his work on the field of alchemy.
John Dee was born in 1527 in London and spent much of his life studying and practicing various sciences, including alchemy. His fascination with precious gems, particularly the ruby, can be traced back to his early years. Dee believed that the ruby held magical properties and was capable of transforming not only physical substances but also the alchemist’s own soul.
One of Dee’s most notable contributions to the study of the ruby was his discovery of a method to alter its color. At the time, rubies were highly prized for their deep red hue, which was believed to be a sign of wealth and power. However, Dee observed that the color of rubies could be manipulated through a process of alchemical transformation.
In his book “Monas Hieroglyphica,” Dee described a method for altering the color of rubies. He suggested that by heating the gemstone in a crucible filled with certain herbs and minerals, the ruby’s color could be changed. According to Dee, the resulting gemstone would possess enhanced properties, such as the ability to grant its wearer protection from evil spirits.
Dee’s experiments with the ruby were not limited to changing its color. He also sought to harness the gemstone’s power for medicinal purposes. Dee believed that the ruby could be used to treat various ailments, including leprosy and epilepsy. He even claimed that the ruby could prolong life and grant its possessor the ability to see into the future.
Despite Dee’s claims, the scientific community of his time remained skeptical of his alchemical endeavors. Many contemporaries viewed alchemy as a pseudoscience, and Dee’s work with the ruby was no exception. However, his contributions to the field of alchemy have had a lasting impact on the study of precious gems and the development of modern chemistry.
One of Dee’s most famous students, Robert Fludd, continued his mentor’s work with the ruby. Fludd expanded on Dee’s theories and conducted further experiments with the gemstone. His work laid the groundwork for future generations of alchemists and chemists who sought to understand the properties of precious gems.
In conclusion, John Dee’s work with the ruby significantly altered the course of alchemy. His discovery of a method to alter the gemstone’s color and his belief in its magical and medicinal properties have influenced the study of precious gems for centuries. While Dee’s alchemical endeavors may have been met with skepticism in his time, his contributions to the field have left an indelible mark on the history of science and alchemy.
