Aries - The Ram: 21st March - 20th April.

• Ruler: Mars.
• Element: Fire.
• Quality: Cardinal.
• Gender: Masculine.
• Color: Red.
• Tarot: The Emperor.
• Natural House: First.
• Astrological Birthstones: Bloodstone and diamond.
• Planetary Stone: Jasper.
• Physical Correspondence: Blood, face and head.
• Keywords: Assertive, pioneering.

The sign Aries is ruled by the planet Mars. Physically it is related to the head. It is said to have a masculine nature, and is therefore more penetrative in its energy. Aries is a Fire sign, and this means a planet placed here will have a need to manifest itself in a very dynamic manner, and that the expression of personal identity through action is important. The desire to come first is paramount, and this comes to expression with a naive effervescence and inexperienced innocence. It is a world of knights and princesses. As Aries is also a Cardinal sign, its energy is manifested in dynamic bursts. Short-term goals are important and tangible results are achieved rapidly.

People with a strong emphasis in this sign will have leadership and pioneer traits, though there is a tendency to impulsiveness and a short temper. Impatience and egocentricity need to be tempered, and greater awareness of the needs of others should be developed, if conflict and tension are to be avoided.

True astrology is a complex art that requires examination and interpretation on a number of levels, not the least of which is looking at the placement in a horoscope of ALL the planets, not just the sun. Examination of the placements of the planets in the “houses” of a horoscope, the aspects between the planets, the degree in which the planets are placed, and other features must be taken into consideration.