All About Chinese Zodiac Symbols

Every culture throughout history has taken an interest in the stars and their influence on the human race. Astrology may be sneered at in some quarters today but it used to be a respectable profession. The stars have been mapped out and categorized for their effect on personality. Two main traditions have developed; the Western and the Chinese. The Chinese zodiac symbols are interesting to study and finding out which of the twelve animals rules a particular birth time can be very revealing.

The Rat has an aggressive disposition, personal charm and a heightened sense of self defense. It also signifies death, the occult and not surprisingly, disease. Their gemstone is the garnet and the parallel western sign is Sagittarius. Tigers have good luck and stand for power and royalty. The tiger is considered to be the ruling animal by the Chinese. Their gemstone is sapphire and the western counterpart is Aquarius. The dragon is the only one of the Chinese zodiac symbols to have mythical status. They have strength, are able to spread harmony and the symbol is believed to remove an evil presence. Their gemstone is amethyst and the western sign is Aries.

The horse is very intelligent, has great resolve and a rather large ego. Their gemstone is beryl and the western sign is Gemini. Monkeys are creative people, sympathetic and champions of justice but are inclined toward resentment. Their gemstone is emerald and the western sign is Leo. The rat and the horse is said to be the worst combination of any of the Chinese zodiac symbols. Dogs are reputedly the kindest and most loyal in the zodiac. They can be over critical however. Their gemstone is diamond and the western equivalent is Libra. The ox is modest, patient and can be relied upon. Their gemstone is onyx and the western sign is Capricorn.

Rabbits are conservative thinkers, shy and reflective. Their gemstone is pearl and the western sign is Pisces. Snakes like the good things in life, are sophisticated thinkers and don't like to be advised. Their gemstone is agate and the western counterpart is Taurus. The sheep are artistic, impulsive and very insecure. Their gemstone is emerald and the western sign is Cancer. The Rooster is courageous, romantic and is considered to be fond of showing off too much. Their gemstone is jasper and the western sign is Virgo. The final member of the Chinese zodiac symbols is the Pig. Signifying fertility, they are honest, straight talking and have a love of the natural world. Their gemstone is topaz and the western equivalent is Aquarius.