The innovation behind these eye-catching coiled beeswax candles dates back to the 1600’s, proving that sometimes the old way is still the best way. A candle's cotton wick can burn 20 minutes per every inch that you pull through the clip. Once the flame reaches the clip, it will put itself out. The coiled design is based on stories of "Courting Candles" in the 1600's. It is said protective parents would light such a candle to mark how long a suitor could spend with their daughter. While our culture may not need that ritual, Candles by the Hour has preserved the beautiful, self-extinguishing design.