The cross is not just an ornament. This is the most important religious attribute for Orthodox people and Catholics. Such “decorations” began to be worn hundreds of years ago – and over the past time, a lot of beliefs and stereotypes associated with them have appeared in society.
We tell you how to choose the right cross, in accordance with religious issues and generally accepted rules.
Three types of crosses
The cross is a religious attribute that symbolizes the owner’s faith in Jesus. It is worn constantly, and not only during the sacraments. Crosses are used in all currents of Christianity, so they are divided into three types:
- Orthodox;
- Catholic;
- Decorative.
They differ in shape, materials used and several important features.
What is the difference between Catholic and Orthodox crosses?
Modern crosses are decorated with complex patterns, enameled and even inlaid with precious stones, as a result of which the line between a religious attribute and ordinary jewelry is blurred. But when it comes to matters of faith, the choice must be approached especially scrupulously. And it is important to know how the Orthodox cross differs from the Catholic one.
Orthodox crosses are made in a 6- or 8-pointed form: a crossbar called “titulus” is installed above the upper part of the crucifix, and there may be an additional one located at an angle at the legs. The abbreviation INRI which stands for “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” This crossbar, according to the Bible, was fixed at the request of Pilate.
On the back of the cross there is also an inscription or engraving “Save and protect”.
On some Orthodox crosses in the lower part, under the crucifix, there is an image of a skull with bones. This is Adam’s head. It is believed that he was also buried on Golgotha. The blood of the crucified Jesus seeped through the thickness of the earth and washed Adam’s head, thereby purifying him – and all mankind – from sins.
Catholic crosses have a 4-pointed shape. They also indicate the title, but not in the form of a separate crossbar. It contains the abbreviation INRI, which has the same meaning as in Orthodoxy.
There is also a difference in the depiction of Christ. Orthodox depict him calm, with outstretched palms, since the crucifixion symbolizes victory over death and the joy of resurrection. In Catholicism, Christ is depicted as suffering, with sagging arms. Also in Orthodoxy, Jesus is crucified with four nails, so his legs are parallel. In Catholicism – three, therefore it is depicted with crossed legs.
During the existence of crosses, their image has changed many times. So, until the 10th century, Christ was depicted on them alive and resurrected. Catholics “painted” Jesus crucified with four nails until the 13th century, after which the image was changed. Also, in some cases, a vine was depicted on the crosses – such options are still found today, but quite rarely.
It is worth mentioning that there is also a “Latin” cross. It does not show a crucifix. It also got its name from the Bible – it is believed that Jesus was crucified by the Latins.
How to choose a cross as a gift
It is not customary to give Orthodox and Catholic crosses for secular holidays. Still, these are religious attributes. They are usually given only to the closest people for religious holidays – christening, Christmas or name day.
It is much easier with decorative ones – they can be given for secular holidays (for example, a birthday or a new year). At the same time, it is permissible to present them to not the closest people – for example, friends or colleagues.
Crosses, presented in the assortment of jewelry stores, are very diverse:
- From white, yellow and red gold;
- From gold of combined colors;
- Gold and silver with blackening;
- With enamel or ceramic coating;
- Inlaid with diamonds;
- Wooden crosses from valuable breeds;
- Inlaid with precious and semi-precious stones;
- Gilded and rhodium-plated crosses.
The most beautiful and practical are gold (585) and silver (925) crosses. The fact is that it is customary to wear religious attributes every day. Therefore, crosses made of metal of a smaller sample can quickly lose their attractive appearance. 14k gold and 925 silver are reliable alloys that are easy to clean and do not come into contact with the skin.
How to choose a cross for christening
When choosing the first cross, pay attention to products made of gold or silver – these are hypoallergenic metals that are absolutely safe for delicate baby skin. Also, do not forget about the chain – it can be not only a metal cord, but also a leather or silk thread.
In this case, the cross itself can be anything. Most godparents choose simple options with a classic look. But nothing prevents you from buying a cross made of red gold, combined metal or inlaid – they can also be used in the sacrament.
Perfect cross for a child:
- Light and small, no more than 2 cm in length, without sharp corners;
- With a large enough bow (hole in the top) where a chain or thread can easily pass through.
The Church allows the use of any crosses (even wooden ones) in the sacrament of baptism. However, it is gold and silver that are hypoallergenic metals, which is very important for the skin of a child. It is undesirable to give copper, aluminum or steel crosses, even with an enamel coating – they can not only oxidize, but are also short-lived.
Decorative crosses
Decorative crosses are cross-shaped pendants that are not part of religious symbols. They do not depict a crucifix and do not provide inscriptions. Therefore, they can be worn even by non-religious people and to social events.
When choosing a decorative cross, it is worth starting from the image and its compatibility with other elements of the jewelry wardrobe. Materials, inlay, style of such pendants can be anything. Decorative crosses should be worn on chains of anchor or armored weaving without inlay.
Our store has a large selection of crosses with stones such as diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires. There are even crosses with grenades and topazes! Crosses on loops and without loops.
How to wear a cross
Crosses are worn under clothing, near the body. Only a priest can wear it over a cloth. Crosses bought in jewelry stores must be consecrated before putting them on.
If the cross was purchased in a church shop, most likely it has already been consecrated. But it is better to check with the seller. It is not required to re-consecrate such a cross after purchase – this is, in principle, a rather rare procedure, which is carried out only in exceptional cases, for example, after a large-scale restoration of the jewelry.
On the chain on which the cross hangs, you cannot wear other pendants or pendants.
Going to a social event in an evening dress with an open neckline, it is better to remove the religious cross – it will stand out from their image and look stupid. Instead, you can wear a decorative ornament. For example, a cross with diamonds, enamel or precious inlay.
