The word 'zodiac' has its roots in Greek. The word roughly translates as a cycle or wheel of animals. Interestingly, there are stories related to each zodiac sign in the Greek mythology.
Among the different tattoo designs available today, zodiac symbols are gaining a lot of popularity due to various reasons. These symbols are decorative, can be modified in many creative ways, and are never out of fashion. Tattoos portray our thoughts, personality, and beliefs. Large number of people all over the world are fascinated by astrology, and wish to collect or adorn things related to it. If you are among them, then zodiac tattoos are meant for you.
Zodiac Sign Tattoo Designs
According to the western astrology, the 12 zodiac signs are (in their order) Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Let us take a look at the tattoo designs and their meanings.
Aries Tattoos
Symbol: Ram
Duration: March 21 - April 20
Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. Although the ram is the zodiac symbol for Aries, it is not a popular tattoo design. This is because of its large size and masculine appearance. But, if you insist on having the ram inscribed, you can take a cue from the aforementioned images. On the other hand, the Aries glyph, that appears similar to the horns of the ram, is more favored than the symbol. It is delicate, can be made in smaller size, and can also be modified creatively.
Taurus Tattoos
Symbol: Bull
Duration: April 21 - May 21
Taurus bull tattoos are very popular for their symbolic meanings. They symbolize strength and power. This is again a masculine tattoo design. Similar to Aries, the glyph of Taurus looks similar to the horns of the bull, and can be used as a tattoo design. You can combine the glyph with text or other designs, for a more artistic tattoo.
Gemini Tattoos
Symbol: Twins
Duration: May 22 - June 21
With the third zodiac sign, Gemini, you have numerous design options and possibilities. You can draw twin girls, babies, angels, fish, birds, flowers, etc. The glyph of Gemini looks like the Roman numeral 2 (II). A combination of the glyph and the twins can make a unique Gemini tattoo.
Cancer Tattoos
Symbol: Crab
Duration: June 22 - July 23
The crab symbolizes the protective nature of Cancerians, who appear tough outwardly, but are very sensitive and emotional on the inside. The glyph of the Cancer is like number 69 written sideways, and symbolizes either the womb (or the Cancer's caring and motherly nature) or the claws of the crab. You can also draw the moon (ruling planet of Cancer) along with the Cancer symbol.
Leo Tattoos
Symbol: Lion
Duration: July 24 - August 23
Although zodiac tattoos are merely made to represent a particular sign, certain symbols have meaning of their own. Leo, the fifth sign of the zodiac, is symbolized by the lion. The lion stands for power, strength, leadership, force, vitality, protection, etc. The lion can be inscribed in many designs and moods. The glyph of Leo, like an inverted 'U" with ends curled, symbolizes the head or mane of the lion.
Virgo Tattoos
Symbol: Virgin
Duration: August 24 - September 23
The beautiful virginal maiden of the Virgo forms an attractive and beautiful tattoo design. She can be drawn in various forms and expressions like a classical Greek goddess, a fairy, a mermaid-like dreamy maiden, etc. The glyph looks like alphabets 'M' and 'P' conjoined together. As Virgos prefer delicate art, the glyph is more popular.
Libra Tattoos
Symbol: Scales
Duration: September 24 - October 23
Librans have a great sense of justice, and are lovers of beauty and art. They usually go for tattoo designs that are exquisite and artistic. A simple design of scales, or a man or angel holding scales, goddess Themis, etc., are the popular Libra tattoo designs. The Libra glyph, that looks like an 'equal to' sign, stands for equality and balance.
Scorpio Tattoos
Symbol: Scorpion
Duration: October 24 - November 22
A simple black scorpion is quite a captivating and bewitching design, and sends out a powerful message. The scorpion, with its tail coiled as if ready to strike, is the most favored Scorpio tattoo design. Also, the Scorpio glyph (appearing like the alphabet M), with the tail pointing upward like an arrow, stands for higher ambitions and actions.
Sagittarius Tattoos
Symbol: Archer
Duration: November 23 - December 21
Sagittarius tattoos are also very decorative and artistic. As the sign is symbolized by an archer, you have myriads of design possibilities, right from a simple bow and arrow or an archer, to a centaur or a warrior, among others. The glyph of the Sagittarius is a simple arrow, pointing upwards. The direct and straightforward nature of Sagittarians is symbolized by the arrow.
Capricorn Tattoos
Symbol: Mountain Goat
Duration: December 22 - January 20
The mountain goat, although the symbol of Capricorn, is not as popular as the glyph. However, those wanting to have it, depict a goat, drawn with abstract art or other intricate designs. The glyph of Capricorn looks like alphabets 'V' and 'S' fused together, and is a popular tattoo design.
Aquarius Tattoos
Symbol: Water-bearer
Duration: January 21 - February 19
Similar to the Sagittarius, there are many design options for Aquarius tattoos. Designs like a water pitcher, a maiden or a youth with a water pitcher, water-bearer angel, etc., can be considered. The glyph of Aquarius looks like flowing water, and is a simple yet graceful tattoo design for girls.
Pisces Tattoos
Symbol: Twin Fish
Duration: February 20 - March 20
Pisces tattoos naturally appear attractive because the symbol, the twin fish, is basically colorful and attractive. You can take inspiration from different species of fish to create your unique tattoo. For a more masculine design, you can incorporate Celtic and tribal art in it. The Pisces glyph looks like the alphabet 'H', and can be decorated with flowers, vines, stars, etc.
The symbol and the glyph are widely recognized tattoo designs. You can also include text like your zodiac sign, name, initials, name of your beloved, etc., with the symbol. You can also browse through tribal, Maori, and Celtic art as they have some of the finest designs for tattoos. Lastly, as a concluding note, remember that zodiac tattoos never go out of fashion and hence, can be proudly sported forever. Good luck!
Travelling is my life
ConversionConversion EmoticonEmoticon