Wax over the centuries

The history of sealing wax began during the era of the great explorations of the 16th century, but even today it is still used in the same way by private individuals and professionals.
One of the main uses that still makes sealing wax inimitable today is the sealing of personal correspondence by applying a seal that makes the mail unique, giving it a touch of authenticity and solidity.
But this is not the only use for which sealing wax is used, here is a historical overview.

Portuguese explorations

Wax is mistakenly thought to have been used during the Middle Ages to seal things, but it only became famous in Europe thanks to explorers.
It wasn't until the 16th century that adventurers such as Marco Polo, who braved the seas and oceans to explore distant horizons and go far to the east, imported sealing wax from India to Portugal.
Since then, sealing wax has been used in southern European countries such as Spain and Portugal and only later spread to the rest of Europe.

Composition of sealing wax

During the Middle Ages, sealing wax consisted of normal beeswax. Later, other ingredients were added to modify its composition, resulting in what is now a more refined and versatile product.

These ingredients are:

• Turpentine
• Shellac
• Chemical colouring agents (cinnabar, chrome yellow, lead mint....)

Today's shellac softens when heated (without releasing harmful fumes) and hardens when cooled.
It is therefore easy to shape when hot and is ideal for stamping or sealing documents and correspondence.
Exactly the application for which sealing wax was used in the past.

Using sealing wax?

Despite the passage of time, a wax seal is still useful today for sealing or decorating personal correspondence.
By engraving a logo or personal initials on a wax seal, every letter, invitation or card is transformed into a piece of jewellery that immediately catches the recipient's eye.

A wax seal is ideal for embellishing your wedding invitations, thank-you cards, business cards...
Decorate all your correspondence with a unique and extremely elegant touch and make it unique and inimitable by choosing a pre-formed model from our large assortment or even by designing your own model.