As the Lunar New Year on February 17 ushers in the Year of the Fire Horse, the jewellery world is revisiting the horse’s enduring symbolism. In Chinese astrology, each zodiac year combines an animal with one of five elements, shaping the year’s character; the Fire Horse, last seen in 1966, is especially intense. The horse symbolizes speed, confidence, stamina, and independence, representing vitality and optimism in Chinese culture and beyond. Historically, horses have featured prominently in jewellery worldwide, from Scythian gold harnesses to Hellenic signet rings, serving as symbols of protection, status, and luck.

With the upcoming Year of the Horse, equestrian motifs are increasingly popular in contemporary jewellery, appearing in both literal and symbolic forms. Designers like Cece Fein Hughes of London-based Cece Jewellery incorporate storytelling into their creations, such as her Wild Horse signet ring from the A Traveller’s Tale collection, reflecting the horse’s rich cultural and artistic legacy.