by Debbie Ross

Created on: September 21, 2008   Last Updated: September 25, 2008

The Jerusalem Cross, also known as the Crusaders' Cross, is not only a Christian symbol but it is a unique and beautiful jewelry item. It has a long history in the world of Christendom. Its earliest appearance as a symbol occurred during the initial Crusade in 1096 in the coat of arms of the first Latin ruler of Jerusalem. The four small crosses are said to represent the four Gospels which were first proclaimed to the four corners of the world from Jerusalem. Jesus and/or Jerusalem are said to be symbolized by the larger cross. Although the Cross can be designed in a variety of styles, an authentic Jerusalem Cross will always contain the five crosses.

To many devoted Christians, the Cross is a link to the Holy City of Jerusalem and it is worn as a symbol of personal faith. However, it does not have to be a devotional piece of jewelry. It is worn by many men and women who simply like the shape of the Cross as a striking fashion accessory. The Cross has been designed to be worn as a pendant, earrings, or as charms on a bracelet. Even wedding bands have been adorned with the Cross. Some people wear the Cross pinned with ribbon as a designation of a specific order or fellowship. The Cross can be plain or decorated with precious or semi precious stones such as rubies, diamonds, or garnets. A Jerusalem Cross intended for a woman is much lighter in weight and the design is more delicate than a Cross produced for a man. The weight of the Cross will ultimately be important when choosing a chain, if it is to be worn as a Cross pendant.

A popular piece of Jerusalem Cross jewelry is the silver Jerusalem Cross. Silver, a long time favorite of silversmiths, is a soft metal which is easy to form into shapes. History tells us that in some cultures, silver was considered to be more valuable than gold. However, Jerusalem Cross jewelry can be purchased in all kinds of mediumssilver, gold, woodto name a few. Depending on whether you are looking for a one-of-a-kind Jerusalem Cross pendant or something along simpler lines, the cost of a Jerusalem Cross can be either affordable or prohibitive.

Jerusalem Cross pendants also make great gifts, whether as a give-away gift for retreats or church conferences, or simply as a token to express your concern for someone in need.

References: Wikipedia.org
tattosymbol.com

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