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Some important tools are the symbols on the altar which denote the "Aristotelian" Elements: Earth, Air, Fire,
and Water (some "maps" include Spirit).
A pentagram or pentacle (a five-pointed star sometimes surrounded by a circle) is often used to symbolize
Earth and its properties -- stability, material wealth, the body, and practical affairs. Alternatively, a small dish
of salt or soil can be used to symbolize the Earth Element.
A thurible (or censer) or a bell
can be used to symbolize Air and its properties -- communications, vitality, intellect and understanding. (A sword or wand
may be used to symbolize Air or Fire, and many "maps" disagree on with which element the sword or wand should be associated.)
A candle or small pot of fire may symbolize the element of Fire and its properties -- will, transmutation,
life-force, and power.
A chalice of water is used to symbolize the element of Water and its properties
-- cleansing, regeneration, and emotion.
An ankh or quartz crystal is used to symbolize Spirit and its properties -- perfection, summation, balance,
illumination and eternity.
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