Alchemical Collection The Tria Prima or Three Primes are the base of everything according to Alchemy. Salt stands for the Base Matter, Mercury for the connection between the High and Low and Sulphur for the Omnipresent Spirit of Life. According to the Renaissance alchemists, all material substances are made up of the “Tria Prima” or Three Primes; mercury (spirit), salt (body) and sulphur (soul).It was thought that when the Primes were in balance the body would be healthy, free of disease. These Primes also made up the alchemists’ most cherished prize - the Philosopher’s Stone. A stone that was thought to transform any base metal into gold or silver, acting as an elixir of life, and immortality.