'Zodiac' stems from the Greek word 'zoon', or 'animal'. It is an imaginary belt in the sky both sides of the Sun's apparent path. There are several ways of finding a birth or sun sign. The birth sign shows how we most naturally express ourselves. Here we have used the most commonly used dates and meanings. For people born on the cusp (dates bordering the next sign), we recommend you check with the recipient beforehand. There are also 'Birthstones' associated with the birth signs, again they vary depending on which charts are used.

Aries: 21 March - 20 April
A fire sign, the symbol of Aries is the ram. This sign is also associated with spring, a time of growth and energy. Aries people can be courageous, enthusiastic and assertive.

Taurus: 21 April - 21 May
An earth sign, the symbol of Taurus is the bull. Taureans are generally sensual, practical and reliable, but with a stubborn streak.

Gemini: 22 May - 21 June
An Air sign, the symbol of Gemini is the twins. People under this sign are versatile, quick-witted and communicative, but also changeable.

Cancer: 22 June - 22 July
A Water sign, the symbol of Cancer is the crab. Cancerians will retreat into themselves if upset as they are sensitive home loving people.

Leo: 23 July - 23 August
A Fire sign, the symbol of Leo is the lion. Positivity is a Leo trait, along with a loyal and generous nature. A powerful personality makes them want to be the centre of attention.

Virgo: 24 August - 23 September
An Earth sign, the symbol of Virgo is the virgin. Virgoans pay great attention to detail so tend to be quite practical and well prepared. They can also be cautious and private people.

Libra: 24 september - 23 October
An Air sign, the symbol of Libra is the scales. The indications are that fairness and justice are important. Librans need harmony.

Scorpio: 24 October - 22 November
A Water sign, the symbol of Scorpio is the scorpion. Loving mystery and secrets, they are quite intense and passionate, reacting strongly when threatened.

Sagittarius: 23 November - 21 December
A Fire sign, the symbol of Sagittarius is the archer. Sagittarians have a great need for freedom and can become restless if life becomes routine.

Capricorn: 22 December - 20 January
An Earth sign, the symbol of Capricorn is the goat. They are disciplined, cautious and hard working with an urge to succeed. Preferring the tried and tested they will resist change.

Aquarius: 21 January - 19 February
An Air sign, the symbol of Aquarius is water. Dogmatic in their opinions and individualistic, they tend to be independent but with a reformist streak.

Pisces: 20 February - 20 March
A Water sign, the symbol of Pisces is a fish, which reflects the slippery and changeable nature of this sign. Compassion and imagination are very typical of a Pisces.