The cross is by far one of the most recognizable symbols in the world as well as one of the oldest. It is also one of the most popular choices for jewelry. While you might see the cross jewelry as having a simple (and powerful) Christian meaning, it’s actually a much more complex symbol than that.Initially the cross was a symbol of execution by crucifixion, in which a wrongdoer was nailed by wrists and feet to a large wooden cross until death. When Christianity flourished and became the state religion, crucifixion was banned and the cross became a symbol of Jesus’ death and resurrection. In this way, the cross represents everything that Jesus stood for, including peace and strength.It is said that both beams of a cross represent different ideals; the horizontal beam being a symbol of femininity, earthiness, destruction and death; whereas the vertical beam stands for masculinity and is seen as eternal, creative, active, positive, celestial and full of life. As you can see, these are all very powerful meanings.