Alchemists attempted to purify, mature, and perfect certain materials. Common aims were chrysopoeia, the transmutation of "base metals" (e.g., lead) into "noble metals" (particularly gold); the creation of an elixir of immortality; and the creation of panaceas able to cure any disease.
Alchemists endeavored to refine, mature, and perfect specific substances. Typical goals included chrysopoeia, the transformation of "base metals" (e.g., lead) into "noble metals" (especially gold); the production of an elixir of immortality; and the production of panaceas capable of curing any ailment.