19 Powerful Chinese Symbols of Wealth and What They Mean
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The Chinese culture is rich in symbolism, and few things are as important as wealth. For centuries, the Chinese have used symbols of prosperity and abundance to attract good fortune, wealth, and success. These symbols are believed to have a powerful energy that can influence a person’s life, bringing luck, wealth, and happiness.
In this article, we will explore 19 of the most popular Chinese symbols of wealth, including their meanings, origins, and how to use them to invite prosperity into your life.
1. Chinese Coins
Chinese coins are small, round, and made of copper or brass, with a square hole in the center. They were first minted during the Han dynasty (206 BC-AD 220) and were used as currency until the early 20th century.
The symbol of a square hole in the coin’s center represents the Earth, while the circular shape symbolizes Heaven. Together, they represent the harmonious relationship between Heaven and Earth, which is essential for prosperity.
Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese practice of conducting living spaces to promote harmony and balance, uses Chinese coins to symbolize wealth and prosperity. They’re often placed in wealth corners or hung from red ribbons to attract positive energy and financial abundance.
2. Fu Lu Shou
Fu Lu Shou is a trio of Chinese deities representing wealth, prosperity, and longevity. “Fu” represents good fortune and blessings, “Lu” represents prosperity and status, and “Shou” represents health and longevity.
Together, they form a powerful symbol of wealth and well-being widely revered in Chinese culture.
The origins of Fu Lu Shou can be traced back to the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), where they were commonly worshipped in Chinese households. They’re still widely worshipped worldwide in China, Taiwan, and other Chinese communities.
Fu Lu Shou is often depicted in artwork and decorations, including statues, paintings, and home decor. The three deities are usually depicted together, with Fu holding a scroll or a child, Lu holding a scepter or an ingot, and Shou holding a staff or a peach.
3. Red Envelopes
Red envelopes, also known as “hongbao” in Mandarin, are a Chinese tradition that symbolizes wealth and good luck. These small red envelopes are usually filled with money and given to children, friends, and family members during special occasions such as Chinese New Year, weddings, and birthdays.
The practice of handing out red envelopes dates back to the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE), where money was wrapped in red paper and given to children as a New Year’s gift. The practice became more widespread during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE) when red envelopes were given to officials and employees as a form of bonus.
Even today, red envelopes represent good fortune and success in China.
4. Mandarin Ducks
Mandarin ducks are a pair of brightly colored birds that symbolize love, loyalty, and prosperity in Chinese culture. In Chinese mythology, mandarin ducks are believed to mate for life and remain loyal to their partners, making them a popular symbol of fidelity and harmonious relationships.
In addition to their romantic symbolism, mandarin ducks are associated with wealth and prosperity. The Chinese word for mandarin duck, “yuan yang,” is a homophone for the phrase “reunion” or “happy couple,” which makes them a popular gift during weddings and other special occasions.
Mandarin ducks have been a popular theme in Chinese art and literature for centuries. They’re often depicted in traditional Chinese paintings, embroidery, and pottery.
The birds are also a popular decorative item in Chinese homes, where they’re believed to attract good fortune and harmonious relationships.
5. Lucky Bamboo
Lucky bamboo, also known as “Dracaena sanderiana,” is a popular plant in Chinese culture believed to bring wealth and prosperity. This plant is often given as a gift during Chinese New Year, weddings, and other special occasions.
Lucky bamboo is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions, which makes it a popular symbol of strength and perseverance in Chinese culture. The number of bamboo stalks also holds symbolic significance, with two stalks representing love and three stalks representing happiness, wealth, and longevity.
6. Jade Plant
The jade plant is popular in Chinese culture that’s believed to bring wealth and prosperity. This plant is native to South Africa but has become a beloved symbol of good fortune in Chinese culture due to its thick, round leaves that resemble coins.
In Chinese culture, the jade plant is often given on special occasions. The plant’s auspicious symbolism is rooted in the belief that the round leaves resemble coins and therefore attract wealth and prosperity.
The plant is also believed to be calming, making it a popular choice for homes and offices.
7. Chinese Knots
Chinese knots, also known as “jiong hua,” are a traditional Chinese handicraft often used as a decorative item and symbol of wealth and good fortune. These knots are made by interweaving threads or cords into intricate patterns and designs.
In Chinese culture, knots are often given as gifts during special occasions such as Chinese New Year and weddings. The knots’ auspicious symbolism is rooted in the belief that their intricate patterns and designs represent unity, prosperity, and longevity.
Chinese knots have a long history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), where they were used as fasteners for clothing and other items. Chinese knots have become popular decorative items in homes, offices, and public spaces.
8. Abacus
The abacus, or “suanpan,” has been a traditional Chinese counting device for centuries. The abacus is made up of beads that are moved along rods and are used to calculate.
During the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), the abacus was used to administer civil service examinations and test the math skills of government officials.
Today, the abacus is still used in many Chinese businesses, particularly in accounting and finance. The device’s auspicious symbolism is rooted in the belief that it can attract wealth and prosperity through its association with accurate calculations and successful business ventures.
9. Wealth Vase
A wealth vase, also known as “tib. Norbu Sangpo,” is a traditional Tibetan Buddhist practice often used to symbolize wealth and prosperity. The vase is typically made of precious metals, such as gold or silver, and filled with various symbolic items, including precious stones, grains, and herbs.
In Tibetan culture, the wealth vase is believed to attract abundance and prosperity and is often used in religious ceremonies and rituals. The vase is also believed to bring good fortune and protect against negative energies and obstacles.
10. Lucky Cat
The lucky cat, also known as “Maneki Neko,” is a popular symbol of wealth and good fortune in Chinese and Japanese culture. This cat figurine is often depicted with a raised paw and is believed to bring good luck and fortune to its owner.
The origins of the lucky cat start in the Edo period in Japan (1603-1868), where the figurine was believed to bring wealth and prosperity to businesses. The cat’s raised paw is thought to beckon good fortune and money, making it a popular item in shops and restaurants.
11. Laughing Buddha
The Laughing Buddha, also known as “Budai” or “Hotei,” is a beloved figure in Chinese culture associated with wealth and good fortune. The Laughing Buddha is often depicted as a jolly, rotund figure with a large belly and a contagious laugh.
In Chinese culture, the Laughing Buddha is believed to bring happiness and prosperity to those who worship him. The figure is often depicted carrying a bag of treasures and a bowl of food, symbolizing his ability to attract wealth and abundance.
12. Tangerines
Tangerines, also known as “jingjie” in Mandarin, are a popular symbol of wealth and good fortune in Chinese culture. Tangerines are often given as gifts during Chinese New Year, where they are believed to bring luck and prosperity to the recipient.
In Chinese culture, the tangerine’s auspicious symbolism is rooted in its association with the word “ju,” which sounds similar to the word for “luck” or “fortune.” The bright orange color of the fruit is also believed to attract positive energies and ward off negative energies.
Tangerines are also a popular decorative item during Chinese New Year, often displayed in homes and businesses as a symbol of good fortune. The fruit is often displayed in groups of eight, considered a lucky number in Chinese culture.
13. Rice
Rice, also known as “mi” in Mandarin, is a staple Chinese food often associated with wealth and prosperity. Rice has been cultivated in China for thousands of years and is deeply ingrained in Chinese cuisine and culture.
In Chinese culture, rice is associated with abundance and prosperity and is often served during special occasions. The grain’s auspicious symbolism is rooted in the belief that it represents a bountiful harvest and good fortune.
Rice is also a popular decorative item during Chinese New Year, often displayed in homes and businesses as a symbol of prosperity. In addition, the image of a rice bowl overflowing with grains is a popular motif in Chinese art and literature.
14. Cranes
Cranes are a beloved symbol of wealth and longevity in Chinese culture. In Chinese mythology, the crane is believed to be a sacred bird that can live for a thousand years.
The bird’s long life and graceful movements have become a popular symbol of good fortune and prosperity. In Chinese culture, cranes are often depicted as symbols of longevity, wisdom, and good fortune in art and literature.
The bird’s association with longevity is rooted in the belief that it can live for a thousand years, making it a powerful symbol of immortality. Cranes are also a popular decorative item during Chinese New Year, often displayed in homes and businesses as a symbol of good fortune.
The bird is also a popular motif in Chinese art and literature, where it’s often depicted in paintings and poems.
15. Rhinoceros
Rhinos are a relatively new symbol of wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture. The association between rhinos and wealth goes back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, where the animals were considered a symbol of power and wealth among the aristocracy.
In Chinese culture, rhinos are often depicted as powerful and majestic animals, and their horns are believed to have medicinal properties and bring good luck and fortune. The horns are highly prized in traditional Chinese medicine and are often sold for large sums.
Rhinos are also a popular decorative item in Chinese art and culture, often symbolizing strength and power. The animals association with wealth and prosperity has become a popular motif in Chinese paintings and sculptures.
16. Turtle
Turtles are a beloved symbol of wealth and longevity in Chinese culture. The animal is often depicted in Chinese art and literature as a symbol of good fortune, wisdom, and longevity.
In Chinese mythology, the turtle is believed to be one of the four celestial animals, representing the north and water element. The animal’s long lifespan and slow and steady movements have become a popular symbol of longevity and good fortune.
Turtles are also a popular decorative item during Chinese New Year, often displayed in homes and businesses as a symbol of good fortune. The animal’s image is also used in Chinese art and literature to symbolize wisdom and knowledge.
17. Horse
The horse is a beloved symbol of wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture. In Chinese mythology, the horse is believed to symbolize success and is often associated with military prowess and victory.
The horse is often depicted as a powerful and elegant animal in Chinese culture. Art and literature use their image to symbolize good fortune and prosperity.
Horses are also a popular decorative item during Chinese New Year, often displayed in homes and businesses as a symbol of good fortune and success.
In addition to China, horses are a beloved symbol of strength and success in other cultures, including Japan and Korea.
In Japan, the horse is known as “uma” and is associated with speed and agility. In Korea, the horse is known as “mal” and is associated with strength and bravery.
18. Camel
The camel symbolizes wealth and prosperity in Chinese culture, particularly in the northwestern region of China, where the animal has been used for transportation and trade for centuries.
In Chinese art and literature, camels are often depicted as a symbol of strength and endurance. Their ability to traverse harsh desert terrain has made them a powerful symbol of success and wealth.
In addition to China, camels are a beloved symbol of prosperity and endurance in other cultures, where the animal is highly valued for surviving in harsh desert conditions. In these regions, camels are often used for transportation, trade, and as a source of food and clothing.
19. Silk
Silk is a beloved symbol of wealth and luxury in Chinese culture, and its production has been an important industry in China for thousands of years.
The high quality and luxurious feel of silk made it a highly coveted fabric among China’s wealthy and noble classes. It was often used to make fine clothing, bedding, and decorative items.
In addition to its use in clothing and textiles, silk is a popular decorative item in Chinese culture, often used to create intricate embroidery and delicate silk paintings. The image of the silkworm and its cocoon are also popular motifs in Chinese art and literature.
Wrapping Up
Chinese symbols of wealth are not just decorative elements but powerful tools that can help you attract good fortune, prosperity, and success into your life. Each symbol has a unique story and meaning rooted in Chinese culture and tradition.
By incorporating these symbols into your daily life, you can tap into their powerful energy and enhance your luck, wealth, and happiness.
