Sideways Cross Necklace

Introduction

Currently trending with fashionistas everywhere is the sideways cross necklace. While some people choose this attractive style to represent their personal beliefs, most people choose it as a fashion statement. It’s undeniable that the cross symbol is appealing. It is understated and elegant, using two straight bars that cross at 90-degree angles. The simplicity of the symmetrical form makes it an ideal complement to any outfit. Celebrity interest in the side cross necklace has made it even more popular. Individuals naturally gravitate toward fashions that people they admire wear.

Popular Styles of Sideways Cross Necklaces

The sideways cross necklace may appear to have few possibilities, yet this couldn't be further from the truth. Horizontal cross necklaces are available in a variety of sizes, valuable metals such as sterling silver and gold, and intricate designs with precious stones. A side cross necklace will suit your needs, whether you want something delicate or a bold statement piece.

1. Gold Sideways Cross Necklace

Many celebrities wear a yellow gold sideways cross necklace with their casual clothes. These are often small horizontal cross necklaces with crosses that are only an inch or two in length on a shorter chain so that the necklace can be worn with almost any neckline. You’ll also find white gold versions if you prefer a cooler color rather than a warm one.

2. Sterling silver side cross necklace

Sterling silver, with its informal, funky attitude, is a less expensive option. Sterling silver is substantially less expensive than white gold and has a comparable silvery-white luster. If you want to attempt a horizontal cross necklace, sterling silver is a low-cost option that yet looks beautiful. Sterling silver crosses set with turquoise are rather common.

3. Diamond Horizontal Cross Necklace

Love the look of a diamond necklace? You’re in luck; horizontal diamond cross necklaces can satisfy your love of glittering diamonds in a style that’s more casual than a statement necklace or full strand of diamonds. While most are set in white gold to enhance the stones’ beautiful sparkle, you’ll also find yellow and even rose gold side cross necklaces. Sideways diamond cross necklaces usually come in two options; one with a single stone set in the center, the other featuring diamonds all along both bars of the cross.

Is Wearing a Sideways Cross Disrespectful?

• Interestingly, there was a bit of controversy surrounding horizontal cross necklaces when people first started wearing them. 
• Much like when the superstar Madonna first wore an oversized cross necklace during her performance of “Like A Virgin” in the 1980s music video, some people have questioned whether the horizontal cross is appropriate. 
• The reasons why people might question it differ.
• Some people don’t like religiously-themed jewelry in general; some feel it should be worn only by people who are believers. 
• Still, others have a specific issue with the sideways cross because they fear it is disrespectful. 
• However, the vast majority of people wear horizontal cross necklaces because they are a beautiful fashion accessory or because the necklace affirms their faith.

Positive Meanings of the Sideways Cross Necklace

1. If you are wearing a side cross necklace because it’s stylish and pretty, you don’t need to look any further for meaning. If you appreciate the meaning behind the jewelry, there are several interpretations. The most common view is that a sideways cross necklace is simply a new twist on wearing an age-old symbol. Many people wear cross necklaces and whether it is vertical or horizontal makes no difference to them other than as a fashion accessory.
2. For some, the horizontal cross necklace represents the division of heaven and earth. Above the cross represents the heavens and life with God, while below the cross represents earthly life. Others believe the sideways cross represents earth, with hell below and heaven above. Wearing it reminds people that they should live life on earth but aspire to heaven.
3. Many Christians view the sideways cross as symbolic of Jesus’ laying down the cross for others and their duty to pick up the cross and carry it. To these men and women, it represents sacrificial love. There are also national flags featuring a horizontal cross, including those of Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland. This is sometimes called the Scandinavian Christian cross, a symbol of pride and patriotism.

Conclusion

Many people of different faiths have a different sideways cross necklace meaning, and it is simply just a fashion piece with no religious significance. Because of this unanimous agreement of fashion, wearing the sideways cross necklace regardless of religion does not cause any offense if the intention is purely for fashion and not religion. Many people wear it because of their faith, but there are no restrictions on who can wear it.

The sideways cross meaning is quite different based on your race or religion. However, there is one thing that I can safely conclude throughout my ventures. The same thing can have multiple opinions and uses. The sideways cross has become a symbol of different things for different people. It’s religious for Christians; for Scandinavians, it’s a symbol of patriotism, while people who only admire it and don’t fall into any category wear it for fashion. So, regardless of the cause, the sideways cross is a fascinating symbol with a deeper historical meaning or just a fashion staple.