Gold Plated & Tarnish Free. The Zia sun symbol represents the four cardinal directions, the four seasons of the year, the four periods of each day (morning, noon, evening, and night), and the four seasons of life (childhood, youth, middle age, and old age). The center of the sun symbol stands for life itself. Zia's belief is that with life come four sacred obligations: one must develop a strong body, a clear mind, a pure spirit, and devotion to the welfare of others.