The zodiac is divided into 12 signs, each associated with specific dates, elements, and personality characteristics. Understanding these signs is essential for building horoscope apps, dating platforms, and astrology features.
Zodiac Signs and Dates
Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19), Taurus (Apr 20-May 20), Gemini (May 21-Jun 20), Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22), Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22), Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22), Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22), Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21), Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21), Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19), Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18), Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20). Note: Cusp dates may vary slightly by year.
The Four Elements
Each sign belongs to one of four elements. Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) are passionate and energetic. Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) are practical and grounded. Air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) are intellectual and communicative. Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) are emotional and intuitive.
Modalities (Qualities)
Signs are also grouped by modality. Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) are initiators and leaders. Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius) are stable and persistent. Mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces) are adaptable and flexible.
Ruling Planets
Each sign has a ruling planet that influences its characteristics. Sun rules Leo, Moon rules Cancer, Mercury rules Gemini and Virgo, Venus rules Taurus and Libra, Mars rules Aries, Jupiter rules Sagittarius, Saturn rules Capricorn, Uranus rules Aquarius, Neptune rules Pisces, Pluto rules Scorpio.