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The Temple of Heaven, one of China’s most iconic architectural wonders, draws millions of visitors yearly with its grandeur and deep historical significance.

Built during the Ming Dynasty, this UNESCO World Heritage site was the ceremonial centre where emperors, known as Sons of Heaven, conducted sacred rituals to secure bountiful harvests and maintain harmony. Its majestic design embodies profound philosophical and spiritual principles, symbolising the balance between Heaven and Earth central to Chinese culture. Larger than the Forbidden City, this vast complex is not only the largest structure in Beijing but also the spiritual heart of Imperial Feng Shui.

Architectural Features of the Temple of Heaven

Round Heaven, Square Earth (天圆地方)

The “Round Heaven, Square Earth” principle is a core concept in Imperial Feng Shui, reflecting the ancient Chinese worldview of the cosmos. This philosophy symbolises the harmony between Heaven, represented by the circular shape, and Earth, by the square. The concept embodies the cosmic order and balance between spiritual and earthly forces that was crucial for ensuring prosperity and stability.

This principle is prominently represented in the Temple of Heaven’s architectural design. The primary altar, known as the Fangze Temple, was constructed with a square layout, enclosed by square walls and water channels, symbolising the Earth. In contrast, the round central structures symbolise Heaven. This harmonious balance is a recurring theme throughout the temple’s layout, reflecting its role as a place where emperors sought to bridge the spiritual and earthly realms through rites and rituals to ensure good harvests and cosmic alignment.

The Circular Mound Altar (圜丘坛)

The Circular Mound Altar is one of the most significant structures within the Temple of Heaven, serving as a key site for Imperial rituals. This three-tiered altar was where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties conducted ritual ceremonies to Heaven. The structure’s design follows the sacred principles of Imperial Feng Shui, where odd numbers—believed to be heavenly—are meticulously incorporated.

The structure’s three-tiered design symbolises the connection between Heaven, Earth, and humankind, and its construction features multiple layers of symbolism. Each level is surrounded by marble balustrades carved with dragon motifs, representing imperial authority. At the centre of the altar lies the Heart of Heaven (天心石), a slightly raised stone where the emperor would stand during rituals, amplifying his prayers toward Heaven.

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests (祈年殿)

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests is the central structure of the Temple of Heaven and stands as a spiritual and architectural masterpiece. This three-tiered, circular hall was where emperors performed rituals to pray for bountiful harvests, reflecting the temple’s primary function as a bridge between Heaven and Earth. The hall’s circular shape, crowned by a three-tiered roof, represents Heaven, while the square yard surrounding it symbolises Earth, again embodying the “Round Heaven, Square Earth” principle.

The hall’s spiritual significance is further underscored by its meticulous design. The building is supported by 28 pillars, each carrying specific symbolic meanings. The 4 inner dragon pillars represent the four seasons, the 12 middle pillars symbolise the 12 months, and the 12 outer pillars correspond to the traditional Chinese hours of the day—embodying the cyclical nature of time and the universe, a key aspect of Imperial Feng Shui.
The roof, originally painted in blue, yellow, and green to represent Heaven, the Emperor, and the People, was later unified in a striking royal blue during Emperor Qian Long’s reign to symbolise the sky. This blend of symbolism and architecture emphasises the emperor’s role as the mediator between Heaven and Earth, a theme that resonates in jewellery designs inspired by the hall’s spiritual and architectural grandeur.

Translating the Temple of Heaven into Modern Jewellery

The architectural and symbolic elements of the Temple of Heaven have been beautifully reinterpreted in modern jewellery design, particularly in Imperial Harvest’s Royal Signet collection.

The fusion of ancient philosophical principles with contemporary craftsmanship has led to the creation of pieces that embody the essence of Imperial Feng Shui, where every shape, emblem, feature, and colour carries profound significance. The “Round Heaven, Square Earth” principle, a key concept in the temple’s design, is reflected in the jewellery through circular forms symbolising Heaven and square shapes representing Earth. These elements, combined, create a balance between cosmic and earthly forces, just as they did in ancient imperial rituals.

Numbers also play a vital role, with the number 9—representing eternity and imperial authority—being prominently featured in the jewellery. Additionally, the use of royal blue enamel and precious gemstones further mirrors the sacred hues of the temple and the harmonious balance of the five elements. These design choices imbue each piece with a deep spiritual connection, channelling the power and symbolism of the Temple of Heaven into wearable art.

Each of the five elements in Chinese culture has a corresponding colour and gemstone: Amethyst for Fire (Lavender), Citrine for Earth (Yellow), White Topaz for Metal (White), Onyx for Water (Black), and Tourmaline for Wood (Green).

Craftsmanship and Cultural Heritage

In the Royal Signet Collection, Master David draws inspiration from the architectural and spiritual elements of the Temple of Heaven, integrating these into each piece. Blending traditional techniques with contemporary design elements, Master David honours the rich cultural heritage of the Qing dynasty, creating a collection that pays tribute to the historical significance of the Temple of Heaven but also brings its timeless elegance and spiritual resonance into the modern era. Each piece is an artistic fusion between East and West, connecting its wearer to a legacy of prosperity, power, and harmony.

Imperial Harvest Royal Signet Collection

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This elegant pendant features a stunning gemstone set in 18k solid yellow gold, surrounded by a vibrant royal blue enamel frame. Inspired by traditional signet rings, it reflects the “Round Heaven and Square Earth” philosophy. The central gemstone, framed by bold blue enamel, represents the balance between the cosmos and the Earth.

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Encircled by a halo of brilliant-cut diamonds and adorned with royal blue enamel, showcases a stunning precious gemstone set in 18K solid yellow gold. Inspired by the balusters of the Circular Mound Altar, the design embodies celestial harmony, reflecting the spiritual resonance of the Temple of Heaven.

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This Royal Signet pendant, adorned with intricate royal blue enamel detailing, draws inspiration from the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. It features a striking precious gemstone set in 18K solid yellow gold, mirroring the hall’s symbolic structure of four inner, twelve middle, and twelve outer pillars.

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Inspired by traditional signet rings, these earrings reflect the “Round Heaven and Square Earth” concept. Crowned with the Imperial Harvest emblem, these earrings incorporate a touch of the brand’s heritage, with each gemstone elegantly set in 18K solid yellow gold, framed by rich royal blue enamel.

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This stunning bracelet showcases a radiant array of precious gemstones in 18k solid yellow gold. It is designed after the Rites of Zhou (周禮) and Imperial Feng Shui principles, incorporating sacred odd numbers that symbolise eternity and authority. The design features a sequence of gemstones framed by blue enamel, finished with a monogrammed tag bearing the Imperial Harvest emblem, adding an elegant touch of the brand’s heritage.

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This elegant signet ring is designed after Imperial Feng Shui principles and the Rites of Zhou. The ring is adorned with eight side diamonds and a striking central gemstone as the ninth, symbolising eternity and imperial authority. Crafted in 18K solid yellow gold, the ring is encircled by a halo of round brilliant-cut diamonds and finished with royal blue enamel accents, enhancing its refined elegance and deep symbolic meaning.

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Crafted in 18K solid yellow gold, this ring is further enhanced by its vibrant royal blue enamel and complemented by round brilliant-cut diamonds along the band. This thoughtful design symbolises eternity and imperial authority, underscoring the heavenly importance of odd numbers — showcasing eight diamonds along its sides, with a striking central gemstone serving as the ninth gem.

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Inspired by the intricate designs of the main pillars in the Temple of Heaven, this signet ring showcases elaborate patterns surrounding a central gemstone. The gem is reminiscent of the altar’s Heart of Heaven (天心石). Merging historical reverence with modern elegance, the ring symbolises a balance of tradition and contemporary style. Set in 18k solid yellow gold, the central gemstone is adorned with royal blue enamel detailing, drawing from traditional motifs to create a piece that embodies both sophistication and cultural heritage.

Bespoke Blessing by Master David Goh

Master David meticulously performs bespoke blessings for each Royal Signet treasure, personally hand-drawing unique talismans essential to the consecration rituals. The blessing ceremonies are held on auspicious dates and times carefully selected according to the client’s Bazi chart. During the process, Master David recites auspicious prayers and anoints each piece with a specially prepared red vermilion.

A Lifelong Journey with Imperial Harvest

The Imperial Harvest Journey represents a lifelong partnership with Master David Goh and his expert team. Through a comprehensive range of complimentary services tailored for Imperial Harvest’s clients, such as annual Bazi reviews, home Feng Shui evaluations, Qi Men Dun Jia consultations, and Yi Jing divination, Imperial Harvest ensures our clients’ lifelong prosperity and success.

Schedule your complimentary Bazi consultation with Imperial Harvest today, and discover how this treasure can enhance your financial, business and relationship prospects.