What is the difference between a Crucifix and a Cross?

Many people believe that the symbol of a cross and the crucifixes are the same when worn on a necklace or bracelet, however, in the world of fashion and jewelry, this is very untrue. 

Despite their similar appearance of a T - shaped design, the Crucifix, and the Cross designed jewellery are very different in their detail and significance. 

The Cross as a symbol 
Throughout history, the symbol of the cross was used to resemble the crucifixion of Christ as a sign of religion, triumph, and faith. 

It also became the universal symbol of Christian faith no matter the denomination (Catholic, Protestant, Anglican, Church of England, Orthodox, etc.) 

This led to its growth in popularity among Christians wearing crosses to show off their faith, as well for personalization gifts and jewellery such as birthstones, pearl, and opals on crosses. 

The Crucifix 
The Crucifix is the display of Jesus Christ's sacrifice for his mankind and is a highly regarded symbol of faith, however, it is not always considered religious jewellery. 

This is because the image on the Crucifix has the corpus (Jesus Christ's body). In some countries and cultures, the depiction of Christ's body may also have a more graphic and dramatic image of his suffering as well. 

Wearing the Crucifix among the Christian community also varies, among each denomination. For example, whilst Catholics display the Crucifix in their churches and often wear Crucifix's or carry them for prayer and protection, people of the Protestant faith wear a plain cross. 

The Cross 
Wearing a plain T-shaped cross without the body of Christ can be both a symbol of Christianity and Christian faith or just a symbol used in fashion trends. 

This also means that not everyone wearing the cross symbol as a charm on a necklace or bracelet is a follower of the Christian faith. 

Cross is one of the most popular symbol icons in modern fashion trends and culture. Many subcultures have also incorporated the cross symbol, such as the Goth Subculture whose outfits trend to feature black crosses in their jewellery. 

Rock Stars and Musicians have also worn crosses to display their devotion or controversy. Satanist have worn crosses flipped upside down to also show their disbelief in Christianity. 

Many people in the fashion industry such as designers, also believe that wearing a cross matches all types of outfits. This us why what once a symbol of religion is now mass-produced for fashion trends through different variations. 

In today's world, people continue to wear crucifixes and cross to display their religious beliefs but also as a way of self-expression and style, irrespective of their faiths.

Written by Shantelle-Ann Marquis