Charms and tassel caps offer a way to completely customize your mala. Charms can be added to the tassel band as you're wrapping it, or strung on the cord as you secure the tassel. Tassel caps are strung onto the cord right before securing the tassel. The top of your tassel should fit snugly inside the cap. 
 
The Western Astrological chart is very different than the Vedic chart- your sign may not even be the same! Maybe you identify with your Western sign or have found something intriguing in the Vedic Birth Chart and want to honor that in your mala. Below are the Western chart dates. If you're unsure of your Vedic signs, you can request a chart reading! 
 
Aquarius: January 20 - February 18
Pisces February 19 - March 20
Aries March 21 - April 19
Taurus April 20 - May 20
Gemini May 21 - June 20
Cancer June 21 - July 22
Leo July 23 - August 22
Virgo August 23 - September 22
Libra September 23 - October 22
Scorpio October 23 - November 21
Sagittarius November 22 - December 21
Capricorn December 22 - January 19