Simply Beautiful Beeswax Candles Made in Provence by Apis Cera

Did you know that Apis Cera means beeswax in Latin? Charles van Valkenburg is an artisan courier (a beeswax chandler) based in Provence. In this article, learn more about these 100% pure beeswax candles made in Provence.

Master Candle Maker

Long before electricity, candlemaking was an essential trade, without which the evenings and nights would have been even darker. Fast-forward to today, most candles are commercially produced in factories, and not everyone appreciates the elegance of the handcrafted versions. However, Charles van Valkenburg does, purchasing some beeswax candles from a Provencal beekeeper as a gift for friends. Van Valkenburg shares on his website that this was the “spark” or perhaps more like a slow burn. He kept one candle for himself and set it on his desk, where he worked away on web design projects. Slowly, an idea bubbled into his mind: could I make beeswax candles by hand?

The spark became a reality, and with 300 Euros, he began the Apis Cera journey. With his start-up “capital,” van Valkenburg purchased a beeswax slab and essential tools. The company is 12 years old and ships its gorgeous candles worldwide. Van Valkenburg says, “I traded my mouse and keyboard for a few tools, some molds, and a workshop in beautiful Southern France.”

Why Choose Beeswax Candles?

1. Beeswax is a natural product: It is a natural, renewable product produced from the wax glands of honey bees (females). However, it is hard work for the bees, who must fly long distances collecting nectar for honey. From 6 to 30 pounds, (estimates vary) of honey is formed to produce a single pound of wax. Regardless of the number, you understand why the wax is expensive.

2. Long burn time: Beeswax has a high melting point, meaning the candles burn slowly and last longer than paraffin versions.

3. A clean, smokeless burn: We understand the impacts of second-hand cigarette smoke on our health. What about the toxic fumes from paraffin candles? Paraffin is a refined petroleum by-product. The black crude sludge is bleached, then acrolyn and stearic acid are added to provide texture and hardening properties.

4. Light quality: Beeswax candles produce a brighter light than paraffin candles.

5. Reinforcing traditions: For centuries, versatile beeswax has been used as a sealant and lubricant in artwork (think batik), cosmetics, and candles. Archeologists have identified traces of beeswax in Roman ruins and Egyptian tombs.

Beeswax Candles by Apis Cera

Made with pure beeswax and no additives, the Apis Cera candle collection includes tapers, pillars, tea lights, and beehive shapes. The company also offers a line of skincare products, including soaps and lip balms made with organic ingredients from the region—lavender, olive oil, sunflower oil, and lavender essential oil.

Apis Cera products are handcrafted in the company’s workshop in Provence. They make beautiful gifts, are environmentally responsible, and support a tradition of artisan candle-making.

Buy Apis Cera Products here and use Perfectly15  at checkout for a 15% discount.

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel.

While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles.

Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg. Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles).