Your first point is spot on, it hadn't crossed my mind, but I will be sure to allude to it when i talk about Alchemy in the future.
The latter is very true, masonic symbolism is in everything from business brands, to science, to fashion.
Though, of course, none of this follows the principles, but instead use the symbolism to sell you on an idea.
Manipulation and disgust is all I feel for those masons who do this.