Actually, from a spiritual point of view, wouldnt it make sense that the term alchemy would imply an internal change, an internal transmutation rather than primarily an external one (of changing the composition of physical metals)? Now im not saying that it is not possible to do that, but for the person who is trying to develop spiritually, changing the composition of metals in that way would yield no results.
Taken from Kellydest's quote"The Stone's history and the history of the human race up until this day is a strange story full of secret societies, hooded cloaks, and mystical symbols. Such theatrics are childish and shallow. It's pointless to look for the light in the shadows."
On the contrary, the symbols themselves contain very deep knowledge, for instance a certain mantra in written form contains within it a deep truth, for us who have not penetrated the symbolism... well it may appear to be just a silly and shallow image.. or story, they are not meant to be easily understood, because knowledge is dangerous, especially to those who are not mature enough to handle it.
"One of the oldest sciences of humanity, Alchemy was known and honored in all ancient cultures because it protected the science of transforming the gross, animal man into a divine being. Yet, as is sadly evident in this day and age, mankind has never respected the divine, and only seeks to indulge in pleasures regardless of the price. Nonetheless, for those who would learn how to apply the mysterious science of Alchemy in their own life, we provide you with the key to unlock the door."
"Although it may appear to be incredible, it is true and factually certain that the science of endocrinology is closely related to Sexual Alchemy. Endocrinology is bound to produce a true creative revolution. Scientists already know that the sexual glands are not sealed capsules. The sexual glands absorb and secrete hormones. The hormones of secretion are called “conserving,” because they perpetuate the species. The hormones of absorption are called “vitalizing,” because they vitalize the human organism. This process of hormonal absorption is transmutation; it is Alchemy: the transformation of one type of energy-matter into another type of energy-matter."
"Trans • mutation: the change of one element into another."
Quoted and Referenced from: http://sacred-sex.org/alchemy/