subject: Charm Jewelry Based on Signs of the Zodiac [print this page] Charm Jewelry Based on Signs of the Zodiac
The practice of astrology has been in existence for many millennia. Numerous historians believe that it began with the Babylonians, an ancient culture originating in central-southern Mesopotamia. The Babylonians developed a system of celestial omens which are believed to have been spread to other cultures in Greece and the Middle East. From here, it likely extended and mingled with pre-existing forms of astrology until, several thousands of years later, it developed into modern-day astrological beliefs which include the use of zodiac symbols. These symbols are popularly worn among charm jewelry enthusiasts.
The zodiac is actually the foundation of the ecliptic coordinate system used in astronomy, but is currently associated with the study of astrology in popular culture. Among the scientific community, astrology is considered a pseudoscience lacking strong empirical evidence. Nevertheless, there are countless individuals who follow the traditions and beliefs of astrology put forth by astrologers.
Astrologers believe that the movement and position of celestial bodies in the solar system can predict or inform them about significant events. There are a growing number of astrologers who simply use astrology as a symbolic study which is thought to help guide people through their lives.
The modern zodiac includes twelve signs that divide the ecliptic into twelve celestial longitude zones. The vernal equinox is used as the longitudinal origin and the ecliptic is the latitudinal origin. The twelve signs are Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.
The dates often associated with each zodiac symbol are as follows: March 20th-April 20th for Aries, April 20th-May 21st for Taurus, May 21st-June 21st for Gemini, June 21st-July 22nd for Cancer, July 22nd-August 23rd for Leo, August 23rd-September 23rd for Virgo, September 23rd-October 23rd for Libra, October 23rd-November 22nd for Scorpio, November 22nd-December 22nd for Sagittarius, December 22nd-January 20th for Capricorn, January 20th-February 18th for Aquarius, and February 18th-March 20th for Pisces.
Charm jewelry based on the zodiac thus comes in a variety of symbols for each sign. In order, these twelve signs include the ram, bull, twins, crab, lion, virgin, scale, scorpion, archer, sea-goat, water bearer, and fish. These signs can be etched into a variety of gems, precious metals, and stones. Often, wearers of charm jewelry choose a charm which includes the zodiac sign for their birth month as the centerpiece of their jewelry. Birthstones and other charms can augment the piece in order to make a truly unique work of art.
