Candles have been around for generations. In fact, since the early 1900's candles were man's single source of artificial light. Not only do candles hold high practical value but they also hold rich traditional and religious importance. Today, candles are no longer man's only light source however they are used abundantly for religious services, special occasions, home decor and fragrance.

Candles have been an invaluable tool since ancient civilization. Egyptian candles were made of a material called tallow, which was extracted from cattle. The material however, burned poorly and emitted a very unpleasant odor. Similar to the Egyptians, early Romans melted tallow for candles but then poured it over fibers of hemp, flax or cotton which were used as the candle's wick. These candles were much more efficient and primarily used for religious purposes and for travel at night as well as for lighting the home.

During the middle ages, bee wax became the primary material in candle production. The process was much like that of traditional Roman candles. Bee wax however was not as much of an abundant resource, therefore making candles was very expensive and difficult to come by. The clergy and upper class were the only people who could afford such a luxury.

Colonial America brought about much progress in candle making. Early settlers discovered a new wax which was made of boiled bay berries. The bay berry wax burned very efficiently and emitted a subtly sweet smell, but the making process was long and tedious. Evolution continued. During the 18th century whaling became America's most thriving industry. As a result, whale oil was available in large quantities. When boiled, the whale oil produced a very foul smelling but efficient wax called spermaceti.

The 19th century was the most defining time for candles and candle making. It was during this time that the very first candle making machines were introduced. This invention produced candles cost efficiently and by the masses, making them accessible to people of all social classes. The process of hand-poured candlemaking was considered a delicate work or art from this point foward. Braided wicks were also introduced during the 19th century. Prior to the braided wick, candles generally used strands of twisted cotton, which burned poorly and was in need of constant maintenance. In the mid 19th century, an oil distillate called paraffin wax was introduced. Paraffin burned odorless, clean and bright and when blended with stearic acid the wax would harden.

Despite modern trends of mass production, here at Mountain Candleworks of Coconut Creek we believe in staying true to the traditional art form of candle making. All of our candles are individually hand poured, premium scented and made with lead-free wicks.