The Metal Element in the Chinese Zodiac
Like a polished blade: clear, sharp and strong.
Metal is the element of strength and clarity. In Chinese tradition it belongs to autumn, the season of harvest and letting go.
Find my element — freeMetal element personality
Metal people are clear, firm and organized. They know right from wrong and keep their word. They like high standards and clean lines. They can seem cool on the outside but care deeply.
Strengths
- Honest and fair
- Organized and focused
- Strong willpower
- Make clear decisions
Watch-outs
- Too strict with themselves and others
- Find it hard to show feelings
- Can be rigid about rules
Metal in love
Metal people love seriously and keep their promises. They need a partner who is honest — and who gently helps them open up.
Metal at work
They do well where standards matter: law, engineering, tech, finance, quality control and any job with clear rules.
Metal lucky colors, numbers & direction
| Lucky colors | white and gold |
|---|---|
| Lucky numbers | 4, 9 |
| Direction | west |
| Season | autumn |
| Fed by | Earth |
| Feeds | Water |
Metal years in the Chinese zodiac
Any year ending in 0 or 1 is a Metal year. Here are all Metal years from 1924 to 2043 (each one starts at Lunar New Year, not January 1).
Your year element vs. your personal element
Your year element is shared by everyone born that year — think of it as your generation’s color. In the Chinese tradition, the element that describes you personally comes from the day you were born. Two people born in the same year can have totally different personal elements. Want yours? Enter your birthday below.
Discover your personal element
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Metal element FAQ
How do I know if I am a Metal element?
The quick way is the last digit of your birth year: years ending in 0 or 1 are Metal years (if you were born in January or early February, check Lunar New Year). Your more personal element comes from your birth day — you can find it free at the bottom of this page.
What are the lucky colors and numbers for Metal?
Traditionally Metal goes with white and gold, the numbers 4, 9, the west and autumn. These are cultural customs — enjoy them, don’t worry about them.
Which element is most compatible with Metal?
In the five-element cycle, Earth feeds Metal, and Metal feeds Water. So Earth people often feel supportive to Metal people, while Water is who Metal naturally wants to look after.