Mary is referred to by several names, including Mary the Jewess, Mary the Prophetess, and Mary the Copt. These varying appellations have led to scholarly debate about her true origins and religious affiliation. It is possible these refer to related but different alchemists over time.

Some scholars argue for a Jewish origin, citing the name "Mary the Jewess" and the prevalence of Jewish alchemists in Alexandria during the Roman period. Others suggest a Coptic (Egyptian Christian) background, based on the name "Mary the Copt" and the strong Coptic presence in Alexandria. The debate remains unresolved due to limited evidence.

Modern scholarship tends to recognize the complexity of Mary's identity, acknowledging that she may have been influenced by both Jewish and Egyptian traditions, given the cultural diversity of Alexandria. Some scholars consider that there may be multiple 'Marys' conflated into a single historical figure.