What Are Cardinal Signs? Everything to Know About Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn
Cardinal signs are the initiators and innovators of the zodiac. Here's everything to know about Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn
Zodiac signs are put into three categories that define them: cardinal, fixed or mutable. Cardinal signs occur at the beginning of the season and bring ideas to fruition, fixed signs come in the middle and do the work the cardinal signs begin, and mutable signs finish the projects at the end of the period.
Each modality or quality has a different essence and vibe. Cardinal signs — Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn — like to start things since they are initiators. They flex hard because cardinal signs are the movers and shakers. At the same time, fixed signs — Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius — play by the rules and are rigid. Mutable signs — Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces — constantly adapt to new views.
Further, within the modality, there are four elements. The modality of cardinal signs carries the energy of the four elements: fire through Aries, water from Cancer, air because of Libra and earth resulting from Capricorn.
Cardinal signs are the beginners and make things happen. They're always active and willing to do the necessary work to bring change. Therefore, they're major players in astrology.
Related: What Are Air Signs? Everything to Know About Gemini, Libra and Aquarius
What is a cardinal sign?
Cardinal signs are the initiators of the zodiac and four seasons. They bring the start of seasons and offer fresh perspectives to matters. Cardinal signs are the doers of astrology — they start projects and finish them swiftly, guaranteeing them to prosper and triumph.
These are the seasons that the zodiac signs commence in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere:
Aries: Spring or Vernal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere and autumnal equinox in the Southern Hemisphere.
Cancer: Summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.
Libra: Autumnal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere and spring equinox in the Southern Hemisphere.
Capricorn: Winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and summer solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.
What are the characteristics of a cardinal sign?
Cardinal signs are the high achievers and the CEOs of the zodiac. They never give up on their dreams and desires. The drive that cardinal signs have for success draws admiration from others.
Not only can cardinal signs run home and business at the same time, but they make it look easy and do it effortlessly. Their passion for everything they do brings fans and legacy to their life. After all, cardinal signs are the go-getters and visionaries.
Everything you need to know about the four cardinal signs
Again, the four cardinal signs are Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. (Please note: The dates of the Sun’s ingress into each zodiac sign change every year. The dates below are based on the 2024 ephemeris.)
Aries (March 19-April 19)
Modality: Cardinal
Element: Fire
Planetary Ruler: Mars
Symbol: The ram
Characteristics: Passionate, flamboyant, assertive, bold, and confident.
Famous Aries: Lady Gaga, Reese Witherspoon, Mariah Carey, Pedro Pascal, Kourtney Kardashian, Eddie Murphy, America Ferrera, and Sarah Jessica Parker.
As the first sign of the zodiac — Aries brings the astrological New Year — Aries are known for their lustful desires, impulsivity and stamina. They are a fire sign that likes to spark inspiration within themselves and others, motivating everyone to attain their goals.
Related: A Guide to the Planets in Astrology and What They Mean in Your Birth Chart
Aries are also known to be independent, creative and aggressive because they will accept nothing but the best. And why should they? They're highly driven and have a warrior spirit that helps them be number one in all that they do. As long as you don't lock horns with the ram, they’ll be the greatest cheerleader anyone can ask for in all facets of life.
Cancer (June 20-July 22)
Modality: Cardinal
Element: Water
Planetary Ruler: The moon
Symbol: The crab
Characteristics: Emotional, tender, secretive, unconditional and romantic.
Famous Cancers: Ariana Grande, Khloe Kardashian, Meryl Streep, Margot Robbie, Mindy Kaling, Tom Cruise, Selena Gomez and Tom Hanks.
Being left, the crab walks sideways; Cancers are known to do things in their own time and way. They are incredibly mature and emotionally aware of the world around them. Not only that, but they are also artistic and creative.
Related: Your Ultimate 2024 Cancer Horoscope, as Predicted by a Celebrity Astrologer
At first, they might seem harsh because their hard shell is a way for them to protect their hearts. However, you'll see their soft, tender and nurturing side when they peel the layer back.
Since the Moon rules Cancer, they change their moods with the lunar signs and phases. It can be hard to keep up with their ever-evolving sentiments, but you'll feel their warmth for eternity once you do.
Libra (Sept. 22- Oct. 21)
Modality: Cardinal
Element: Air
Planetary Ruler: Venus
Symbol: The scales
Characteristics: Diplomatic, harmonious, relationship-oriented, artistic and intellectual.
Famous Libras: Serena Williams, Gwyneth Paltrow, Haley, Hillary Duff, Kim Kardashian, Bruno Mars, Danny Glover and Matt Damon.
Libra is the airy side of Venus, which makes the zodiac sign more critical and artistic than most. Known for their peaceful nature, Libras seek connections with others and use their diplomatic skills to unite people.
Since the Scales of Justice rule them, Libras adhere to fairness, law, order and reason. Life and love are a negotiation and compromise waiting to be made because they always seek the middle ground. They have high convictions regarding their ideology and an open mind to others’ opinions, allowing Libras to choose the verdict on a situation by applying their principles wisely.
Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19)
Modality: Cardinal
Element: Earth
Planetary Ruler: Saturn
Symbol: The sea goat
Characteristics: Ambitious, practical, sensitive, loyal and honest.
Famous Capricorns: Kate Middleton, Bradley Cooper, Denzel Washington, Michelle Obama, Dolly Parton, Gayle King, LeBron James and John Legend.
Capricorns are incredibly hard-working and powerful. As is the last earth sign of the zodiac, they tend to put their energy into building and growing relationships and endeavors. Capricorns begin projects and complete them quicker than other zodiac signs due to their efficiency and desire to achieve greatness through their skills.
The sea goat is known to be reflective and tender-hearted. Capricorns are the perpetual lifeguards of the zodiac because they’re permanently residing on the mountain cliff, looking downwards at the sea to ensure that all they care about is safe. Capricorns will do anything for those they love and adore, even sacrificing their pleasure.
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