About the author
Frater Albertus was the working name of Albert Riedel (1911-1984), a German-born alchemist who founded the Paracelsus Research Society in Salt Lake City to teach practical laboratory alchemy in the United States. His best-known book, The Alchemist's Handbook: Manual for Practical Laboratory Alchemy, listed here in several editions, sets out material long circulated under oath of secrecy within alchemical circles: the fundamental principles of the art, instructions for building an inexpensive home laboratory, and step-by-step laboratory procedures. Riedel taught his method through the Paracelsus College courses he ran from the 1960s onward, and the Handbook functions as a companion text to that teaching rather than a historical or theoretical study. It remains a reference point for readers interested in spagyric and laboratory approaches to alchemy specifically, as distinct from purely symbolic or psychological readings of the tradition.
📖 Where to start with Frater Albertus
💬 What our editors say about Frater Albertus's books
“Frater Albertus successfully demystifies the esoteric art of alchemy, presenting a groundbreaking manual that invites readers into a world of hidden knowledge now brought to light. The text is particularly strong in its…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on The Alchemists Handbook: Manual for Practical Laboratory Alchemy
“Frater Albertus delivers a focused, no-nonsense guide that prioritizes laboratory setup and execution over mystical fluff. It is perfectly suited for the serious student willing to invest time in precise instruction and…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on The Alchemists Handbook: Manual for Practical Laboratory Alchemy
“Frater Albertus delivers a pragmatic guide that demystifies the Great Work for the modern practitioner. By focusing on establishing an affordable laboratory and outlining precise procedures, it successfully bridges the gap…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Alchemist's Handbook: Manual for Practical Laboratory Alchemy
📋 Editions by Frater Albertus in the catalog
| Edition | Year | Publisher | Pages | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Alchemists Handbook: Manual for Practical Laboratory Alchemy | 2012 | www.bnpublishing.com | 128 | 9781607964766 |
| The Alchemists Handbook: Manual for Practical Laboratory Alchemy | 2012 | www.bnpublishing.com | 128 | 9781638231530 |
| Alchemist's Handbook: Manual for Practical Laboratory Alchemy | 2026 | Blurb | 128 | 9781034414315 |
| The Alchemist's Handbook: A Practical Manual Albertus, Frater | 2022 | Weiser Books | 160 | 9781578637652 |
