Pixiu bracelet: which hand, and how to wear it

The pixiu (貔貅) is a mythical beast with a lion's head and a big mouth, but no way out. The old story says it eats gold and silver and never lets them go. That is why business owners across Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore wear one: to bring wealth in and keep it from leaking away.

Wear it on your left wrist

Most feng shui teachers say the left hand. The traditional idea is that energy flows in through the left and out through the right, so a pixiu on the left wrist draws wealth in. A few teachers say either hand is fine for a gift; the left is the common rule.

Face its head outward

Turn the pixiu so its head points away from your body, toward your hand and the world. It is said to go out and bring wealth back to you. Facing it toward you is thought to make it “eat” your own luck.

The house rules

• Don't let other people touch it. It is yours.
• Take it off for the shower and the swimming pool.
• Take it off before sleeping, and before visiting a hospital or a funeral.
• Pat its head now and then. Many owners say good morning to it.

Citrine, obsidian or gold?

Citrine is the 'merchant's stone', linked with steady, honest income and a bright mood. Black obsidian is chosen for protection. A gold-tone pixiu on citrine beads combines the two ideas that matter most to shop owners: bringing money in, and keeping it.

Does it really work?

A pixiu is a tradition and a reminder, not a promise. Most people who wear one say the real value is the habit it builds: noticing money, looking after it and staying open to opportunity.