Aries Ruling Planet: Mars Symbol: Ram Element: Fire Color: Red Metal: Iron Gemstones: Garnet, Red Coral Characteristics (general--maynot apply to all): Bold, Brave,Energetic, Impatient, Selfish The Spring equinox marks the beginning of a new zodiacal year, in which Aries is the first sign. Be cause it is that first of that new year Arians get things started and lead the way; they arr bad followers. Mentally, Arians are intellectual and objective. They shouldn't be afraid to be forceful--it's part of their very nature.