Studying Alchemy within the OSOGD

Let's discuss the creation of a formal (optional!) curriculum for laboratory alchemy within the OSOGD framework. I have a few random observations to throw in the pot, and hope that we can distill something from this which can map onto the grades within the Order.

1. Alchemy is generally considered to be a solitary form of study. In fact, in the most arcane experiments the alchemist must be alone, as otherwise the thoughts and influence of others can cause unwanted tangents in the process. By and large, most OSOGD members will also work alone when studying and performing their meditations, so this shouldn't pose a problem. However, if there is a shared alchemy lab for this work, access to it would need to be scheduled and carefully managed, and procedures developed to physically and energetically cleanse the space after use. 

2. The development of skill in alchemy doesn't easily map onto the grade structure of the OSOGD, aside from a few more obvious parallels such as the similarity between the process of creating of the Stone (of whichever kingdom) and the attainment of KCHGA. While it's tempting to map certain experiments onto the grades (I've done that in the past), I suspect that a better approach is to base an alchemical curriculum upon the overall degree structure of the Order (i.e. First Degree -> 0=0 through 4=7, Second Degree -> Portal, and Third Degree -> 5=6 on up). I would recommend performing work in the Plant Kingdom for the First Degree, culminating in the production of the planetary tinctures and the separation of the Principles for a plant Stone. Spend the Second Degree in contemplation of the emerging Stone, imbibing it and watching it develop, and in the Third Degree, completing the Work in the plant kingdom in preparation for the more difficult Circulatum Major (the Mineral work).

3. I know that Adam McLean considers the alchemical images (mandalas) to be extremely useful as a meditative tool for inner alchemy. I don't have a lot of experience working with them in that way, but it might be useful to include this option within a curriculum, especially for those who are not inclined to work within the laboratory. The OSOGD already incorporates several of the more famous of these images in some of the advancement rituals.

4. We should discuss the kind of training that someone would need to handle the laboratory apparatus. Alchemy mentors could do this for new candidates, and we can develop written guidelines that include helpful hints tailored to the Order lab equipment.