Candles have been used for over two millennia worldwide. First evidence found in Etruscan tomb from 7th century BC. Early candles made from beeswax, tallow, or spermaceti. Candle makers became guilds by 13th century in Europe
Beeswax is made from honeycomb of bees, with pollen oils turning it yellow/brown. Earliest known human use found in 6500-year-old tooth. Used historically for metal casting in West Africa for over 600 years
Beeswax candles provide clean, long-burning light with honey scent. Wood wick candles produce crackling sound and burn more cleanly. Soy candles offer natural, slow-burning light with fluorescent glow. Citronella candles repel insects while emitting citrus scent
Basic materials needed include wax, candle mold, wick, and fragrance options. Wax should be cut into 1-inch chunks for better melting. Paraffin wax melts at 122-140°F, soy wax at 170-180°F, beeswax at 66°F
Avoid using same fragrance throughout house to prevent nose habituation. Assign distinct notes to each room for clear definition. Candles work best for larger spaces, reed diffusers for bedrooms and bathrooms. Burn candles until wax is liquid at inch depth to avoid over-perfuming
Candles consist of solid wax mass with wick running through it. Top of wick is covered with thin wax layer to start flame