There are five basic elements within pagan religions, and are not to be confused with science lab chemical elements. These are the center of most Wiccan's lives, under, of course, the God and Goddess.
Four of these five elements correspond to the cardinal points of the pentacle. The fifth (called either ether or spirit) relates to the center and circumference of the circle. These elements can be thought of as natural energy in different states of being. Each is associated with an Alchemical symbol, which can be used in meditation and faerie/nature exercises.
Ether�����
The ritual tool for this element is the cauldron.
Associations of this element are the turning wheel of the seasons, transformation, transcendence, being everywhere and nowhere.
There are no astrological signs connected with this element.
The sense associated with this element is hearing.
Spirits of this element are visualised as Angels.
Air�����
The East is symbolized by the element of air or wind.
During rituals this element is usually represented by incense smoke from a censer or the athame/sword/wand.
Associations of this element are the season of spring, intellect, imagination, communication, mind, and consciousness.
Astrological signs connected with the element of air are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.
The sense associated with this element is smell.
Air spirits are visualised as Sylphs.
Fire�����
The South is symbolized by Fire.
This elements is not surprisingly represented by fire itself during rituals, usually in the form of lit candles. It too can also be represented by the athame/sword/wand.
Associations of this element are the season of summer, sense of purpose, will power, initiative, inspiration, and vigour.
Astrological signs connected with the element of fire are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.
The sense associated with this element is sight.
Fire spirits are visualised as Salamanders.
Water�����
The West is symbolized by Water.
Again, this elements is not surprisingly represented by water itself during rituals, usually contained in a chalice or bowl.
Associations of this element are the season of autumn, emotion, intuition, love, empathy, and human bonds.
Astrological signs connected with the element of water are Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces.
The sense associated with this element is taste.
Water spirits are visualised as Undines.
Earth�����
The North is symbolized by Earth.
This element if frequently represented by salt (natural rock salt preferably) during rituals, it can also be represented by the pentacle or pentagram.
Associations of this element are the season of winter, material matters, aspects related to the physical body, common sense, practicality.
Astrological signs connected with the element of earth are Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.
The sense associated with this element is touch.
Earth spirits are visualised as Gnomes.
*Information from Pagan Man*