It is probable only a metaphor.
Cerium was not known by alchemists.
The alchemists were unaware that atoms even existed.
Putrefactio meant decay. The alchemists believed in breaking down matter to it's base elements, either through decay of by using acid.
Most of the strongest Alchemists appear to be men.
The alchemists wanted to transform iron into gold.
Alchemists. Alchemists.
Artists and Alchemists - 2011 is rated/received certificates of: USA:TV-G
The Alchemists - 1999 TV is rated/received certificates of: USA:PG-13
Alchemists tried to make GOLD from base metals. Scientists know that theoretically Gold can only be made by altering the number of protons in an atom. Alchemists did NOT know about protons etc., .
I don't think "alchemists" is the word you meant to use, because your question does not make sense. Alchemists are people who try to magically turn lead into gold, or otherwise magically turn one substance into another.
Alchemists
The goal was more psychological than spiritual. The alchemists were attempting to cure the "darkness of midlife". The psychologist Carl Jung studied the work of the alchemists for decades, and believed that hidden within their writings, were psychological explanations for their work.