TG, if you're interested in the history of alchemy, or fascinated by its mysticism, there are many websites about it. Here's one:
http://www.levity.com/alchemy/

- but note the first words on the subject in the Encyclopedia Britannica:

"alchemy [:] a form of speculative thought that, among other aims, tried to transform base metals such as lead or copper into silver or gold and to discover a cure for disease and a way of extending life."

If your real interest is in science, you won't want to waste too much time on speculative thought from centuries past.

(For a definition of a 'invisible purple rhino', ask DA Morgan laugh )

P.S. - to avoid double-posts, use the 'Edit' button smile

"Time is what prevents everything from happening at once" - John Wheeler