Author: Alison Price   –   Updated: February 2026

 ❤️ Basic Natal Astrology

This article is part of my Basic Natal Astrology category and brings all the beginner components of interpreting a natal chart together. This includes signs, planets, houses, aspects and more. Alison

Quincunxes

Aspects in General

Aspects Definition

The aspects are the angular connections between the planets. Two planets may be said to be in aspect to each other.

For example, you could say, “The Sun is quincunx the Moon.”

Division

The aspects themselves are found when you divide the zodiac circle, of 360°, by different numbers.

To get a quincunx you divide 360° by 12 and then times it by 5.

(360°/12) x 5 = 150°

(30°) x 5 =150°

The angle for a quincunx is 150°.

Major Aspects

Ptolemaic Aspects

The five major aspects are:

• Conjunction
• Opposition
• Trine
• Square
• Sextile

Minor Aspects

Non-Ptolemaic Aspects

The four minor aspects are:

Eighth Harmonic

• Semi-square
• Sesquiquadrate

Twelfth Harmonic

• Semi-sextile
• Quincunx

Origin of Quincunx

Rome

The word quincunx comes from ancient Rome, long before it became an astrological term.

Roman As

In the Roman Republic, the Roman as was a bronze coin that originally weighed one Roman pound and was divided into twelve parts called unciae. These twelfths are the root of our word “ounce.”

• 1 as = 12 unciae
• 1 quincunx = 5 unciae

A quincunx was a coin worth five twelfths of an as. The name itself reflects this: quinque means five and uncia means twelfth. So, a quincunx literally meant “five twelfths.”

Five Dots

On the coin, this value was shown visually. Roman bronze coins used a system of dots to indicate denomination. The quincunx bore five pellets arranged in a pattern. Often this appeared as four dots forming a square with one in the center. That pattern is the original geometric quincunx.

Dice Pattern

Over time, the term came to describe both the coin and the five point arrangement. You still see this layout in garden design, on dice showing the number five, and in architectural motifs.

Astrology

Astrology later borrowed the word to describe the 150° aspect. There is a quiet poetic link here. Five twelfths of a circle is 150°. So, the astrological quincunx preserves the mathematical meaning embedded in the ancient coin. Fun!

Coin –> Pattern -> Glyph

What began as a practical monetary unit in Rome became a geometric pattern and then an astrological symbol of adjustment. I believe that this is a lovely example of how language travels across centuries, carrying its structure with it.

Quincunxes in Patterns

The main major aspect pattern which uses quincunxes is the yod. A yod has two quincunxes and one sextile.

Quincunx Themes

The Misfit

The quincunx aspect is one of the more subtle and uncomfortable connections in astrology.

A quincunx forms when two planets are about 150° apart. The signs involved do not share the same element, mode or polarity.

They have very little in common. Because of this, the quincunx does not flow easily like a trine, nor does it confront directly like a square.

Instead, it creates a feeling of misfit.

Inconjunct

This aspect is sometimes called the inconjunct, and that name gives you a clue. The planets are not really “seeing” each other. They operate in different languages.

Quiet Tension

Imagine having to coordinate two people who want completely different things and do not understand each other’s priorities.

Neither is wrong.

They are simply out of step. The tension is quiet but persistent.

Quincunx: Minor Aspect

Angle and Orb

A quincunx has an angle of 150° and an orb of 2°.

Quincunx Meaning

Natal Chart

In a natal chart, a quincunx often shows an area of life that requires ongoing adjustment. You may feel that you can never quite settle it once and for all. There is a need to adapt, tweak, refine and compromise. Over time, this can build skill and sensitivity. You learn how to manage complexity.

Example

For example, someone with a quincunx between the Sun and Saturn may feel pulled between personal expression and responsibility. The solution is not to abandon one for the other. It is to keep recalibrating until both can exist in a workable balance.

Planet in Quincunx

Interpretation

Here is a guide to how the quincunx can express for each planet. In every case, remember that the quincunx is about adjustment. It asks for ongoing recalibration rather than a final solution.

Sun Quincunx

When the Sun is quincunx another planet, your core identity feels slightly out of sync with that planet’s agenda. You may struggle to express yourself cleanly in that area of life. There can be a sense of having to edit or tone yourself down. Growth comes from learning how to honour who you are while making practical adjustments.

Moon Quincunx

With the Moon involved, emotional needs and habits do not quite mesh with the other planet’s function. You may feel unsettled or easily irritated without knowing why. Emotional awareness is key. Small shifts in routine or expectations can bring relief.

Mercury Quincunx

A quincunx to Mercury can show mental tension. Thoughts and communication patterns may not align with what the other planet wants. You may overthink or struggle to explain yourself. Clarity improves when you slow down and translate between the two drives.

Venus Quincunx

When Venus is quincunx another planet, love, money, or values feel slightly mismatched with that planet’s energy. Relationships can require steady compromise. Financial decisions may need refinement. The lesson is about adjusting desires so they remain realistic and kind.

Mars Quincunx

A quincunx to Mars suggests misdirected energy at times. Action may feel awkward or poorly timed. You might push when patience is needed or hesitate when action is required. Mastery comes from pacing yourself and choosing your battles carefully.

Jupiter Quincunx

When Jupiter forms a quincunx, optimism and growth can be slightly out of proportion. There may be overreach or misplaced faith. Adjusting expectations helps. Expansion works best when it is grounded and measured.

Saturn Quincunx

With Saturn involved, duty and discipline may conflict quietly with the other planet’s needs. You may feel blocked or burdened. The answer is not rigidity but steady refinement. Responsibility can be reshaped so it supports rather than suppresses.

Uranus Quincunx

A quincunx to Uranus creates restlessness. The urge for freedom does not sit comfortably with the other planet’s expression. Sudden changes may feel disruptive rather than liberating. Gentle innovation works better than rebellion.

Neptune Quincunx

When Neptune is quincunx another planet, confusion or idealism can blur boundaries. It may be hard to see clearly how the two energies fit together. Discernment is essential. Over time, you learn to balance imagination with practical reality.

Pluto Quincunx

A quincunx to Pluto brings deep undercurrents. Power, control, or transformation themes operate subtly. You may sense pressure without obvious cause. Adjustment requires honest self-examination. When handled consciously, this aspect can produce profound inner growth.

General

In all cases, the quincunx is not about dramatic conflict. It is about steady, mindful correction. It refines rather than explodes. It teaches you how to live with complexity and to make thoughtful changes as life unfolds.

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

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