Science and Legend
Science and Legend meet:
Science and legend? the science, of nanotechnology and new methods seem to be bringing some legends to life in modern times. Let’s take a look at the science and then explore some of the legends that surround gold and silver and other precious substances.
Science
Science and legend seem to have reached a strange kind of crossover with Nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is a fascinating field of science that deals with working with matter at the scale of atoms and molecules. The word “nano” comes from a Greek prefix meaning “dwarf”. One nanometer is a billionth of a meter, or about 60,000 times thinner than a human hair! Nanotechnology allows us to create new applications with unique properties and functions to materials.
Nanotechnology is not entirely new. For centuries, artisans and artists have used nanoscale materials to create stunning effects, such as the color-changing Lycurgus cup made of gold and silver nanoparticles, or the stained-glass windows of medieval churches that reflect different hues of light.
Today, nanotechnology has many applications in various fields, including health, beauty and skin care. By using tiny particles that can penetrate deeper into the skin, nanotechnology can enhance the performance and effectiveness of cosmetic products. Nanotechnology also helps us to rediscover the secrets of these ancient substances that have been revered for their beauty and healing properties over the millennia, such as gold, and silver.
Taking gold and silver down to nanoscale is where the most beautiful colors and properties unfold. Gold changes color at different nano sizes. Yellow, green, blue, magenta, ruby red and purple are all colors that gold displays at different nano sizes. Tracey Mae Aesthetics use a ruby red gold. Ruby red gold is achieved at the size of 20-25 nanometers. Silver taken to nano size changes from yellow to amber and then brown.
Nanotechnology is referred to by some as modern alchemy and the science of the 21st Century!
Legend
We looked at the Science above now lets explore the legends. Gold, Silver, Frankincense and Myrrh all have long histories that date back through the mists of time.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these precious substances in turn.
Gold
Gold is a symbol of royalty, divinity, and eternal value. It is a mineral and an element or precious metal. It is said to be primordial, meaning that it existed before the creation of the earth and came from the debris of dead stars.
Gold has been used for centuries as a symbol of wealth, power, and beauty. But did you know that gold also has many benefits for health and beauty? According to various legends and historical sources, gold has been used to treat various ailments, enhance skin appearance, and even prolong life.
One of the earliest examples of gold being used for medicinal purposes comes from ancient Egypt, where alchemists worked to develop a ruby red elixir made of liquid gold. They believed that gold could cure diseases, rejuvenate the body, and restore youthfulness. Gold was also used in dentistry, as it is non-toxic, easy to shape and does not corrode.
In medieval Europe, gold-coated pills and gold waters were popular remedies for sore limbs, which could be a sign of arthritis. Ancient Romans used gold to heal skin problems, such as ulcers and lesions. In China, peasants cooked rice with a gold coin to replenish the mineral in their bodies. In India, gold was and is still used in Ayurveda as Swarna Bhasma, a substance that can revitalize and energize the body. Gold was one of the gifts given to Jesus by the Magi, along with frankincense and myrrh.
Gold is also known for its cosmetic benefits, especially for the skin. Cleopatra applied gold to her face as a beauty mask. Gold is said to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties that can reduce redness, protect against free radicals, and support collagen production.
Silver
Silver is a mineral and native element and is one of the seven precious metals of antiquity.
Legends that surround silver are: That Alexander the Great drank water from a silver vessel to prevent illness during his conquests. King Arthur’s sword Excalibur was made of silver. Silver is the color of the Greek goddess Artemis and represents focus, feminine energy and strength.
This precious substance has additionally been used for centuries for its healing and beauty properties. Silver has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a natural remedy for various ailments. It is also believed to enhance the energy flow in the body, balance the emotions, and stimulate the intuition. Silver is also a symbol of purity, wisdom, and prosperity.
Frankincense
Frankincense is a fragrant resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia. It has been used for centuries in religious ceremonies, perfumes, cosmetics, and medicine. Frankincense also has a rich history of legends and myths associated with it.
Cleopatra the legendary Egyptian queen, incorporated frankincense in her famous beauty routine along with gold. Another legend is that it was used by Queen Sheba to seduce King Solomon and gain his Favour.
It has been used in Ayurveda, traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
Frankincense is used in the anointing oil of Royalty.
Myrrh
Myrrh is a resin that has been used for centuries in various cultures and traditions. It is extracted from the Commiphora Myrrha tree, which grows in dry and arid regions of Africa and the Middle East. Myrrh has a balsamic, woody, and slightly metallic scent that can evoke a sense of spirituality, mystery, and calmness.
This precious resin has many benefits and uses for skin care, health, and wellness. It has antioxidant properties that can help prevent oxidative damage and aging of the skin. It also has soothing and antibacterial properties that can heal wounds, infections, and irritations. Myrrh can also enhance the fragrance and longevity of perfumes, as it blends well with other balsamic, spicy, and floral notes.
Myrrh is not only a valuable substance, but also a symbol of beauty, love, and divinity. According to legend, the Greek goddess Aphrodite transformed princess Myrrha into a myrrh tree to save her from her father’s wrath. From the tears of the tree, a beautiful baby boy named Adonis was born, who became the lover of Aphrodite. Myrrh was also one of the gifts that the three wise men brought to baby Jesus, as a sign of his status and divine nature. Esther, the legendary beauty of Adar, married the King of Persia after winning a beauty competition. Her beauty treatments were oil of Myrrh and perfumes.
In Ayurvedic medicine a tonic of Myrrh is considered rejuvenating.
In conclusion, Science and legend meet in the world of nanotechnology and new methods of extraction that bring precious materials such as gold and silver to new life in modern times. The intersection of science and legend is truly fascinating.