Chinese Zodiac Information

The Chinese Zodiac is based on a twelve year cycle, each being represented by an animal. Find the year you were born to determine your sign. See our complete selection of Chinese zodiac pewter pendants.

THE TIGER

Years 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022

Tiger personality traits:
One of the most dynamic signs in the Chinese zodiac, Tigers are by turns fascinating, commanding, and exasperating. They are patient but short-tempered, calm but rebellious, petty but noble, fearsome but affectionate, free spirits but fiercely territorial. With their many & various personality traits, Tigers are also - not surprisingly - noted for a marked reluctance to make up their minds. What makes them magnetic and commanding figures is the absolute loyalty and affection they show for those they love. With a natural air of authority, Tigers easily earn the respect and admiration of those who love them in return. While domesticated Tigers are quite happy among familiar surroundings, they are just as apt to fly off on an adventure at a moment's notice. Unpredictable and emotional, they can become quite fearless when standing up for themselves or others, and often hold definitive views on how to right the wrongs of society. At work, Tigers show natural leadership ability, but prefer to work alone. They usually excel as business managers, social activists, explorers, or travel writers.

THE OX

Years 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033

Ox personality traits:
Still waters run deep, as anyone who has observed an Ox will tell you. People born in the Year of the Ox are the supremely self-assured, and as a result are noted for inspiring confidence in others. Generally patient and thoughtful, they measure their words, and will speak clearly and concisely often when it matters most. Born to lead, Ox people can be quite stubborn, but also stubbornly loyal to those they love. However, when opposed, their fierce tempers are legendary. So always follow this very wise advice: never cross an Ox! Generally placid and easy-going on the outside, the Ox can be very dogmatic. There are no gray areas evident within their narrow scope of vision, and they often only see things as good or bad. Therefore, they are never easily persuaded by a clever argument. Possessing an excellent memory, the Ox can often recall verbatim a conversation weeks or months after it has occurred. Their physical stamina combined with their mental alertness is a distinct advantage when it comes to completing any task at hand. In fact, Oxen can often be seen patiently working away… long after everyone else has dropped from sheer exhaustion! Ox people are also generally good with their hands, and together with sterling leadership abilities are often successful as doctors or surgeons, construction managers, army generals or business leaders.

THE RABBIT

Years 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023

Rabbit personality traits:
Although generally calm, gentle and loving, Rabbit people can be very ambitious and intuitively know how to get ahead in the world. They are good listeners, kind and sweet by nature, and are therefore often sought out as popular and trusted friends. Generally noted for their physical beauty, Rabbits like to surround themselves with beautiful things. They have a good eye for art, design and fashion, and are usually at the top of anyone's Best Dressed list. Others may call the Rabbit timid, but those born under this sign rightly view themselves as wise and cautious. Rabbits are rarely known to make a move or jump into any new situation without first carefully considering all their options. No one is more surprised than Rabbits when they win a poker hand or hit the jackpot at the races, although at times good luck just seems to come their way unbidden. Rabbits are regarded as the peacemakers in any group. They remain calm in any situation, and are very slow to anger. In close personal relationships they can be very romantic, but their natural cautiousness prevents them from settling down or committing to any one person right away. At work, they excel by remaining cool and collected, and can be relied upon for extreme tact in delicate business dealings.

THE DRAGON

Years 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

Dragon personality traits:
Seemingly born under a lucky star, the dragon is the most vital and powerful of any in the Chinese zodiac, although with an infamous reputation for being a hothead - and possessing a sharp tongue! At any social gathering, you know a Dragon has entered the room as the air starts to tingle with the energy they exude. Enthusiastic, and confident sometimes to the point of swaggering, Dragon people inspire confidence in others with their honesty and quick wit. Natural "movers and shakers", Dragons can sometimes be overbearing to lesser mortals who do not share their natural self-perception as absolute rulers of all they survey. However, their great popularity stems from a soft and sensitive heart, which the Dragon only reveals to trusted friends and loved ones who delight in their tender concern. Not shy in the least about going after what they want, Dragons can be their own worst enemies - aggressive to the point of tyrannical, and may be heard running off at the mouth without thinking. However, after having made a foolhardy decision, Dragon people often recover quickly and admirably continue on to follow their hearts' desire with dauntless determination. Gifted with innate courage, tenacity and intelligence, those born under this sign are most often a shining success at whatever field they choose.

THE SHEEP

Years 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027

Sheep personality traits:
The most creative sign in the Chinese zodiac, those born in the Year of the Sheep (also known as the Year of the Ram or Goat) are often artistic, sensitive, sweet and charming. Shy by nature, Sheep are not the most practical of people and, although well-mannered, they occasionally may suffer from "foot-in-mouth disease" by saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. Still, with their considerable charm and innocence Sheep never lack for protective friends and admirers. Outwardly dreamy and starry-eyed, Sheep are inwardly anxious, insecure, and usually find day-to-day living difficult and puzzling. As such, they often take refuge in religion, astrology or the occult. Sheep are not overly ambitious, but once they find work that makes use of their considerable talents, they are passionate about what they do. Typically surrounded by beautiful things, Sheep have an ardent love of creature comforts and are almost always elegantly dressed, but can become overly reliant on appearances. Conversely, Sheep people have an innate love of nature and are never happier than when messing about in the garden. In business Sheep tend to be highly disorganized, but they usually enjoy great success as artists, actors, designers, and in many other creative endeavors.

THE PIG

Years 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031

Pig personality traits:
Intellectually curious, honest and tolerant, those born in the Year of the Pig can be relied upon for their loyalty and often make true friends for life. Like the knights of old, Pigs are often highly regarded for their chivalry and pureness of heart, and will often sacrifice their own well-being for the greater good. The Pig can be very naive, however, and may easily fall victim to the unscrupulous who take advantage of their idealistic nature - as Pigs see everyone as loyal and caring as they are. Although forced to play the fool many times, they will just as likely hold fast to the notion that everyone is at heart decent and admirable. Stubbornly optimistic, the Pig will not tolerate those with well-meaning advice on how to be a Pig, but since they dislike quarreling and discord their anger usually cools quickly. Sometimes looked upon as a snob, the Pig just finds it right and natural to exhibit good manners whenever possible. Their main goal in life is in serving others, and no matter how difficult circumstances become the Pig will never waiver or retreat, forging ahead in the sure knowledge that all will be well. Pig people love to read, are generally thirsty for knowledge, and not readily talkative, but if presented with an opportunity to discuss topics of interest with like-minded individuals Pigs may find themselves talking non-stop for hours! People born in the Year of the Pig are trusted associates in whatever career they happen to choose and often shine as entertainers, social activists or politicians.

THE ROOSTER

Years 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029

Rooster personality traits:
Loyal and trustworthy, people born in the Year of the Rooster are sociable, very accomplished and usually very well-dressed. Shrewd and daring, they are outspoken and even boastful by nature. Most annoyingly - Roosters always think they are right ... and very often they are! Sharp and analytical, Roosters are generally deep thinkers and it is a rare occasion when something gets by them. Though abundantly practical, Roosters are also big dreamers. They are courageous by nature and know how to get what they want. If thwarted in attaining a big ambition they can become moody and downcast. However, they usually recover from a loss quickly. Roosters are rarely still for any length of time and must always be busy doing something. Shy and conservative at heart, Roosters are can be overly concerned with their appearance and often buy the most stylish of clothes. They love to entertain, and a party hosted by them is almost sure to be the most memorable and extravagant of any. Roosters are noted for doing anything in their power to keep friends and loved ones happy, and are disappointed if they fail. For their sincere and straight forward care and concern, Roosters are usually much loved and respected by all who know them. Successful in any field they may choose, Roosters usually do well as publicists, entertainers or restaurateurs.

THE HORSE

Years 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026

Horse personality traits:
Like tigers with whom they are most compatible, Horse people can be a jumble of contradictions. Cool but hot-blooded, hard-nosed but humble, impatient but extraordinarily tolerant, the Horse is above all defined by hard work and self-reliance. Although Horses work well in groups, they prefer to work by themselves and exhibit extraordinary levels of energy and concentration. They are good with their hands, but can be seen happily losing themselves in accomplishing any given task. In social settings, they are cheerful, charismatic and sometimes overly talkative as they clairvoyantly finish other's sentences in conversation. However, they are also often the first guest to depart, usually due to a feeling of becoming too "penned in". Conversely, Horses are happiest in large crowds in open spaces and enjoy the camaraderie found in pressing the flesh at outdoor gatherings or concerts. In romance, they have a tremendous need for intimacy and belonging. However, once domesticated they often feel pressured in fulfilling family obligations, as they remain at heart powerfully rebellious creatures who will not be made to feel cornered. Travel is a favorite pastime, and horses are known to race off to any far-flung destination at a moment's notice. As such, Horses are well suited to careers as adventurers, poets, travel writers or politicians.

THE SNAKE

Years 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025

Snake personality traits:
Like a deep river, Snake people are usually placid on the surface, but their thoughts and emotions run very deep. Quiet and unassuming, they prefer to work by themselves and are more often in the spotlight for their real and lasting accomplishments than for outward attempts at garnering attention. Snakes hate to fail, and are very lucky when it comes to making money. With reputations for being hoarders, they are very frugal and careful about lending money to friends for frivolous reasons. However, they often show extraordinary sympathy when presented with an opportunity to help those who are truly in need. Essentially loners, Snake people commonly keep their own counsel and rely on themselves to get ahead in life, mistrusting others' thoughts and opinions on matters of the utmost importance. Facts, too, get in the way of decision making for most Snakes, who prefer to use their own deeply held feelings and intuition in negotiating life's crossroads. In matters of the heart, Snakes can be deeply amorous, jealous in nature, and do not handle rejection well at all. And woe to those who betray the trust and affection of the passionate snake! In business dealings, Snake people command respect for their accomplishments and can enjoy great success as teachers, writers or philosophers.

THE DOG

Years 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030

Dog personality traits:
Loyal, faithful, and true, people born in the Year of the Dog make the best of friends. As such, they often inspire confidence in others and are always willing to help those in need. The Dog is not showy, and sometimes can be shy at social gatherings. Their role is more apt to be as good listeners, and they usually make good companions for the more demonstrative or gregarious personalities of the zodiac. A born worrier, the Dog people can sometimes bark and bite at those around them, or become highly critical of others who do not share their same highly developed sense of honor and duty. Conversely, Dogs may become quiet, cool and judgmental with loved ones who arouse their anger, but they will always remain devoted. Although young Dogs are apt to find fault at every passing injustice, the more mature will usually grow less anxious and take matters far less seriously as they age. Their basic ideal of guarding against the wrongs of society as a whole stays with them, however. It is certainly always the Dog who can be relied upon to speak up for the disenfranchised and downtrodden. Dogs do not consciously seek out riches, but neither do they ever want for creature comforts. With their considerable talents and innate qualities, Dogs usually excel as effective social activists, teachers, nurses or doctors.

THE MONKEY

Years 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028

Monkey personality traits:
Charming, charismatic and extremely inventive, Monkey people are most noted for their intelligence and clever genius in working out difficult problems for themselves and others. Cheerful and energetic by nature, they attract many friends with their magnetic personality and innate tact and diplomacy which may dissolve into condescension at times. They are impatient when it comes to getting their way, but their anger cools quickly. Extremely curious and thirsty for knowledge, Monkeys are never happier than when absorbing facts and information, and possessed of a near photographic memory usually retain all they have learned. For this reason, their inventiveness in tackling thorny problems with the greatest of ease usually earns them well-deserved admiration and appreciation from business associates, friends and loved ones. Loyal and devoted to friends, Monkeys are ardent and passionate in romance, but they may quickly lose interest in the object of their affection and seek out another. This general fickleness is also seen in their abandonment of projects if not allowed to immerse themselves in them immediately, and in their eating habits they usually prefer a quick snack during the day rather than sitting down to a full meal. With their considerable talent and extraordinary originality, Monkeys may enjoy luck and in whatever career they choose, but usually excel as troubleshooters, scientists, researchers or inventors.

THE RAT

Years 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020

Rat personality traits:
People born in the Year of the Rat are one of the most industrious and hardest working in the zodiac. Forever busy in pursuit of an ambitious personal goal, at times they may become difficult to work with since they are born perfectionists. Rats must ensure that every "i" is dotted before completing an assigned task. As a result, they are often successful financially, and are good providers for their family and those they cherish most dearly. Loyal and loving, Rat people inspire loyalty in others who are close to them. They are essentially honest individuals and loath to betray a confidence. However, their quick wit and restlessness can sometimes lead to chattiness, and they can often be relied upon at large social gatherings for a good story or a juicy bit of gossip. Their energy levels and expert organizational talents are such that it is a rare thing to see a Rat person sitting idly by with nothing to do. They may even sometimes be viewed as opportunists who cajole others into helping them accomplish a great ambition. In their careers, Rat people can find much success as business leaders or politicians.