While candles have been around for quite some time, scented candles are a relatively new addition. In the beginning, candles actually smelled terrible, so this is a positive, to say the least. There is a great deal of history behind the evolution of the candle, so read on for more information.

Candles were originally invented so people could see at night. These candles were made from tallow, which is simply animal fat, and there are records of them as far back as the tenth century BC, during Biblical times. These candles did not smell good at all and also create a lot of soot, but things have improved greatly since this time.

It was actually the Romans who invented the candles that we use today. They began by melting the animal fat down into a liquid form and then adding cotton, flax, or hemp to this liquid. This material acted as a wick, so that the actual animal fat would not have to be burned. These candles were still used for interior lighting, but there are also many stories about them being used in religious ceremonies as well.

Now in the Middle Ages the candles were used even more in the religious ceremonies. Along the way it was found the beeswax was ideal for making candles and it burned cleaner than tallow. However, these candles were expensive because the beeswax was so scarce. So only the upper class and the clergy could afford to use these candles. The commoners kept using tallow.

Early settlers in the Americas introduced a new way to make candles during colonial times, as they boiled down bayberry berries and turn them into wax. This also created a great smell as it was being burned, so it was popular. The only drawback was that it was a long process that some people would avoid. Since these new candles smelled so great, however, there was a definite market for them.

The whaling industry was very strong in the 18th century and whale oil became a valuable commodity. A wax that was created from whale oil became the wax of choice when making candles. While this type of wax was not scented, it tended to keep its shape better, which allowed it to last longer than other candles, even in hot weather.

Now in the 19th century candle making got certain improvements that changed the course of its history. Machines for candle making were invented. This invention allowed the masses to afford candles more easily. It was also found that the animal fats contained stearine or stearic acid and a process was patented for the candle making using a crude form of stearic. The quality of the candle majorly improved.

Around this time, people began including a braided wick with their candles. Previously, twists of cotton or hemp were used, but these did not burn adequately and needed constant attention. Braiding the strands ensured that the wick would burn longer, which helped out a lot.

Now today you can find both unscented and scented candles in all shapes and sizes. They also come in a variety of scents. Many different colors can be found too. They are made from paraffin, soy wax, beeswax, and the new gel substance which has become popular. Isn’t it fun to be part of the history of candles?

This post was written by Romina Evans, she writes for an online decorating publication. She has been making candles as a hobby for 23 years. She is capable of making various kinds of candles made from paraffin, beeswax, soy etc. Two of her favorites are woodwick candles and glow candles because they are able to create a soothing atmosphere once lit. Read more about candles, visit our site!