Did you know the history of candles?

The History of Candles: A Timeless Evolution

The history of candles is a fascinating journey spanning thousands of years, from ancient civilizations using primitive waxes to today’s eco-friendly, decorative, and scented variations. Candles have played a crucial role in human history, serving not only as a source of light but also as a symbol of spirituality, celebration, and even luxury.

Ancient Beginnings: Early Uses of Candles

The history of candles dates back over 5,000 years. While the exact origin remains unknown, it is widely believed that early forms of candles existed in Ancient Egypt, where rushlights were used around 3000 BCE. These early light sources were created by soaking reeds in animal fat. However, they lacked a wick, meaning they burned more like torches than traditional candles.

Around 500 BCE, the Romans developed the first true candles by repeatedly dipping papyrus into melted tallow or beeswax, creating the familiar cylindrical shape we recognize today. These candles were used for religious ceremonies, nighttime lighting, and even as a way to track time in early calendars.

While the Romans are often credited with pioneering the modern candle, similar developments occurred in other parts of the world:

  • China: Candles were made from whale fat and sometimes contained wax from insects mixed with seeds.

  • Japan: Candle makers extracted wax from tree nuts, developing early plant-based wax alternatives.

  • India: People boiled cinnamon tree fruit to create a fragrant wax used for temple candles.

Medieval Candle-Making: Religious & Practical Uses

During the Middle Ages (5th – 15th century), candle-making became a skilled trade. Beeswax candles were particularly valuable, as they burned cleanly and had a pleasant natural fragrance. However, they were expensive and primarily used in churches, monasteries, and by the wealthy.

For the common people, tallow candles (made from animal fat) were the most accessible option. These candles, while effective, emitted a strong odor and thick smoke, making them far less desirable than beeswax alternatives.

By the 13th century, candle-making had become an established guild-based profession in Europe, with chandleries (candle shops) appearing in most towns. Chandlers crafted candles for churches, homes, and public spaces, ensuring their widespread use before the invention of artificial lighting.

The 18th & 19th Century: Advancements in Candle-Making

The history of candles saw a significant transformation in the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the most notable innovations was the introduction of spermaceti wax from sperm whales. This wax burned brighter, cleaner, and longer than tallow and beeswax, making it highly sought after.

By the early 19th century, scientists discovered that stearin—derived from animal fats—could produce a harder and more efficient wax. Stearin candles became widely popular, marking a shift toward high-quality, slow-burning candles that no longer relied solely on natural beeswax or tallow.

One of the most revolutionary moments in the history of candles was the invention of paraffin wax in the mid-1800s. Paraffin, a byproduct of petroleum refining, was cheaper to produce, had no odor, and burned with a bright, consistent flame. This development made candles more affordable and accessible to the general population.

However, despite these advancements, the rise of gas lighting and Thomas Edison’s invention of the electric light bulb (1879) began to reduce the dependence on candles for everyday lighting.

The 20th Century: Candles as Decorative & Aromatic Products

By the 20th century, candles had largely shifted from being a necessity to a luxury and aesthetic item. With widespread access to electricity, people no longer relied on candles for illumination but instead used them for ambience, relaxation, and religious ceremonies.

A significant milestone in the history of candles came in the 1980s and 1990s, when the demand for scented candles surged. These candles, infused with essential oils and fragrances, became popular for home décor and aromatherapy. The trend led to the development of soy wax candles, an eco-friendly alternative to paraffin that burns cleaner and longer.

The rise of handcrafted and artisanal candles also became prominent during this period, as people sought natural, sustainable, and toxin-free alternatives to mass-produced paraffin candles.

Modern Candles: Innovation & Sustainability

Today, candles have evolved far beyond their original purpose. Innovations in candle-making have led to the creation of:

  • Wooden wick candles that provide a crackling flame effect, mimicking a fireplace.

  • Coconut wax and palm wax candles, offering eco-friendly, slow-burning properties.

  • Beeswax candles that purify the air by releasing negative ions, making them a popular choice for clean living.

With growing concerns over environmental sustainability, many candle companies now focus on organic, biodegradable ingredients. The demand for vegan and cruelty-free candles continues to rise, with manufacturers ensuring that their products contain no harmful additives or paraffin-based toxins.

The Lasting Legacy of Candles

The history of candles is a testament to their enduring importance in human culture. From early civilizations using simple wax to modern luxury candles infused with fragrance and therapeutic properties, the journey of candles reflects both scientific advancements and societal changes.

Even in today’s digital world, candles remain a symbol of warmth, relaxation, and spirituality. Whether used for romantic dinners, meditation, religious rituals, or home décor, candles continue to illuminate lives in more ways than one.

Buy our Scented Soy Candles Here

Back to blog