Knowing a bit about astrology and what most people know of as the symbols of the zodiac is a great way to start collecting charms. These stylized or very traditional types of charms are very important additions to any bracelet and are often seen as bringers of good luck to the person fortunate enough to be wearing the charms.
The circle of life is the actual interpretation of the meaning of the zodiac. Modern designations of the zodiac relate to specific dates on the calendar but the ancient astrologers were actually naming the twelve different sections of the sky that surround the earth. These signs, which are now seen on charms and other types of jewelry, are the physical representations of the space that the sun travels through each year. Since the sun’s travel is constant, it is now designated in both space and time.
There are exactly twelve zones of the zodiac, all which are equal in size. They do outline the sun’s travel through the space around the earth on its elliptical annual orbit. The first astrologers looked into each section of the zodiac and chose a group of stars, a constellation, to represent that area of the sky. They are still in use today as the signs of the zodiac.
Charms that depict the animals of the zodiac include the bull, ram, crab, lion, scorpion, goat and fish. In addition there are the human or mythical zodiac signs of the twins, scales, water carrier, centaur and virgin that are also designed in very stylized forms.
Within each symbol of the zodiac there are certain traits or behaviors attributed to a person born when the sun is in that section of the sky. Other planets that may be orbiting through that area also can influence the person born at that time. There are charms that also symbolize different planets that can be combined with a zodiac or astrological charm.
In addition to identifying people born within a specific period of time, the zodiac charms are great just as decorative pieces on a bracelet. After all not everyone that wears these charms is necessarily up on all the astrological implications of the symbol. Often the zodiac symbols are combined with birthstones to add to the beauty and uniqueness of the charms.
Starting a new family charm bracelet may be a terrific opportunity to learn a bit more about astrology. Each person in the family can research their sign and select charms that represent that sign. They can then all be combined on a bracelet to make a original gift for anyone in the family.
Since it is very likely anyone wearing these very unique bracelets will be asked about their charms, knowing a few facts about the zodiac is a great starting point. As with many charms these bracelets are a great addition to any jewelry collection.