Zodiac Sign Information: All About Sagittarius

Those with birthdays between Nov. 23 and Dec. 21 were born under the ninth sign of the Zodiac, Sagittarius.

Sagittarius is represented by the archer, and is a fire sign. The archer is usually depicted as a centaur - a being with the lower half of a horse and the upper half of a man. The man is typically aiming a bow and arrow into the sky, which is said to symbolize the Sagittarian's desire to combat his or her primal instincts by aiming their ambitions heavenward.

Sagittarius originates from the constellation of Sagittarius. In western astrology, however, the sign is no longer associated with the constellation because of the progression of the equinoxes.

Sagittarius is a masculine sign with positive and extroverted characteristics. It is a fire sign and one of the four mutable signs.

The planet Jupiter rules Sagittarius. The sign has also been associated with the astrological ninth house.

Sagittarians have tendencies toward adventure, travel and philosophy. They want to go beyond the borders of their immediate surroundings in their search for meaning in their lives.

Sagittarius is one of the most optimistic signs of the zodiac, if not the most optimistic. They always see the glass as half-full rather than half-empty.

They are honest - sometimes brutally so. They have a tendency to speak without considering that what they say may hurt someone's feelings.

Because Sagittarius has characteristics of a horse, Sagittarians often love horseback riding. They are also drawn to sports that utilize the legs and thighs such as outdoor hiking or distance running.

Sagittarians are lifelong learners, always wanting to know more. They do not like restrictions and can become moody if they feel they are being fenced in in any way.

Fire signs tend to have warm dispositions. They are generous about giving that warmth to others.

Like other fire signs, Sagittarians don't plan their next moves and aren't especially logical. They live in the here and now and don't judge or give situations much forethought. They rely heavily on their survival instincts and intuition.

Sagittarius' connection to Jupiter - the largest planet in the solar system - can mean people born under the sign have a tendency to spend too much money or overindulge in eat and drink.

The lucky gemstones for Sagittarius are yellow sapphires and emeralds, especially when worn together. The key phrase for the sign is "I see." Centering colors are yellow, green and light blue; lucky numbers are 3, 5, 6 and 8. Lucky days are Thursday, Wednesday and Sunday.

Lucky metal for Sagittarians is tin. Body parts ruled by Sagittarius are the hips and thighs. Their lucky tree is oak; flowers are carnations and dandelions. Lucky herbs are garlic, sage and borage.

Centering countries for Sagittarius are Australia, Spain, South Africa, Surinam, Portugal and Mongolia. Cities are Toledo, Naples, Toronto and Stuttgart.