Thoughtful Gift Ideas For Your Friends, Based on Their Astrology Element

We turn to zodiac signs to guide us through life: compatibility with new people, advice for relationships, even an outlook on the week ahead. So when it comes to gifting, why not use the same approach?

While each of the 12 zodiac signs has distinct qualities, they're all heavily influenced by one of the four elements: earth, wind, fire, and air. By understanding each element and its influence on the signs, you can find a gift that complements your friends’ personality. Think: a holographic highlighter that brings out their creativity or a rare whiskey that fulfills their most extravagant inclinations.

Keep reading for a breakdown of the four elements and corresponding gift ideas. With this information in your back pocket, you’ll have the power to unlock your friends’ characteristic astrological energy.

Earth signs are pros at staying present and in-the-moment. At times they can be stubborn, but their extreme confidence overshadows any feelings of self-doubt. Even though they're grounded and practical, people in this element are drawn to quality goods that last a lifetime and love anything that hints at extravagance.

When it comes to earth signs, you'll want to grab something that's as complex as their nature, like Johnnie Walker Blue Label. Made with a blend of the rarest malts and a velvety smooth finish, this whiskey is meant for the finest occasions and is best served neat. To play off the warming and smokey notes of the whiskey, try lighting this wood fire candle. And any earth sign would appreciate a practical and expensive-looking gift like this fancy lip balm.

Like the agile and adaptable air itself, signs from this element look inward. At times, they tend to overthink things because of their cerebral nature. But air signs don’t let emotions get in the way of their decisions and always turn to logic. They’re also social butterflies who believe in the power of communication.

Let the air sign in your life indulge in fantasy with this rainbow, glitter-packed highlighter. Or, tap into their intellectual side with this thought-provoking book of essays. Air signs love having friends over to catch up on the latest, so give them a set of fun glasses — hint: they’re ideal for serving Johnnie Walker Whiskey on the rocks.

Just like their element, fire signs are bold and spontaneous; they're always seeking out the next adventure. But if someone gets in their way or tries to limit their creativity, their temper can run hot. Although, some say this just makes them more exciting to be around.

Channel their daring side with these beaded shrimp-cocktail earrings. Or pick up something that's as complex as them, like a bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label. It's versatile: serve it neat or on the rocks, or add some club soda and lemon to make a refreshing highball. If they're already booking plane tickets for their next adventure, opt for a film camera so they can snap pictures along the journey.

Water signs let their hearts guide their decision making. Because they're so deeply in touch with their emotional side, they rely heavily on intuition. People who fall into this camp typically find escape through creative and artistic means. Yes, they can get lost in their feelings, but they're also the friend you can turn to when you're feeling vulnerable.

Chances are, your water-sign friend prefers vinyls over streaming services. Pick up a record player so they can listen to their favorite tunes on repeat, like this one. To help them process and understand their emotions, try this wellness journal. It has sections where they can check in with their feelings and express daily gratitudes. Oh, and this luxurious silk robe will pair well with their nightly journal sessions.

Illustrations: Jordan Kay; Design: Mia Coleman