Beeswax Candle
A beeswax candle is a higher-quality alternative to common tallow, crafted from the natural wax secreted by bees during honeycomb construction. It sheds light equivalent to a standard candle, but with several notable advantages. Beeswax burns longer and cleaner, producing little to no smoke and giving off a faint, pleasant honeyed scent—or no scent at all if left unscented. Unlike tallow, it remains stable over time, resisting rot, melting, or spoilage in harsh environments.
The harvesting and preparation of beeswax is both time-consuming and risky, often requiring skilled keepers and protective equipment, which contributes to the candle’s higher cost. In wealthier regions or temples, beeswax candles may be further refined and perfumed with delicate floral oils, making them prized for both their function and their fragrance.