Palm Shapes

Learn the four classic hand shapes (earth, air, fire and water) and what they suggest about temperament.

Palm readers group hands by the ratio of palm length to finger length. The four types borrow the names of the elements.

The four types

  • Earth hand: square palm, short fingers; practical and steady
  • Air hand: square palm, long fingers; curious and communicative
  • Fire hand: long palm, short fingers; energetic and bold
  • Water hand: long palm, long fingers; sensitive and intuitive

How to use it

Measure from the base of the palm to the base of the middle finger, then compare with the finger length. Most people are a blend of two types, which is natural.

Frequently Asked Questions

They share names but are separate systems, so your hand type need not match your sign.

The basic shape stays the same; lines and skin texture change more.