Mosaic Cross Necklace
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Onyx, Agate, Carnelian, Coral, Lapis Lazuli, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
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Finding the Right necklaces for You
We are fortunate to know much of the world’s long and dazzling history of necklaces, as this type of jewelry was so treasured that it was frequently buried with its owners.
Lapis lazuli beads adorned necklaces unearthed from the royal graves at the ancient Iraqi civilization of Sumer, while the excavation of King Tut’s burial chamber revealed a sense of style that led to a frenzy of Art Deco designs, with artisans of the 1920s seeking to emulate the elegant work crafted by Ancient Egypt’s goldsmiths and jewelry makers.
In ancient times, pendant necklaces worn by royalty and nobles conferred wealth and prestige. Today, wearing jewelry is about personal expression: Luxury diamond necklaces exude confidence and can symbolize the celebratory nature of a deep romantic relationship, while paper-clip chain-link necklaces designed by the likes of goldsmith Faye Kim are firmly planted in the past as well as the present. Kim works exclusively with eco-friendly gold, and these fashionable, fun accessories owe to the design of 19th-century watch fobs.
For some, necklaces are thought of as being a solely feminine piece, but this widely loved accessory has been gender-neutral for eons. In fact, just as women rarely took to wearing a single necklace during the Renaissance, men of the era layered chains and valuable pendants atop their bejeweled clothing. In modern times, the free-spirited hippie and counterculture movements of the 1960s saw costume-jewelry designers celebrating self-expression through colorful multistrand necklaces and no shortage of beads, which were worn by anyone and everyone.
Even after all of these years, the necklace remains an irrefutable staple of any complete outfit. Although new trends in jewelry are constantly emerging, the glamour and beauty of the past continue to inform modern styles and designs. In a way, the cyclical history of the necklace differs little from its familiar looped form: The celebrated French jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels found much inspiration in King Tut, and, now, their Alhambra collection is a go-to for modern royals. Vintage necklaces designed by David Webb — whose work landed him on the cover of Vogue in 1950, two years after opening his Manhattan shop — were likely inspired by the ornamental styles of ancient Greece, Mesopotamia and Egypt.
On 1stDibs, browse top designers like Cartier, Tiffany & Co. and Bulgari, or shop by your favorite style, from eye-catching choker necklaces to understated links to pearl necklaces and more.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A necklace with a cross is simply called a necklace with a cross or a “cross necklace.” This refers to any necklace that features a Christian cross or crucifix (and is considered emblematic of a commitment to Christianity). Shop a range of antique and vintage cross necklaces on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A necklace with a cross on it typically means that the person wearing it is a Christian. The cross represents the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and wearing one is traditionally a symbol of religious faith. However, some people wear vintage and antique cross jewelry only as a fashion statement. Find a wide variety of cross necklaces on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 4, 2023Whether it's good to wear a cross necklace is a matter of personal opinion. However, many people do wear them to symbolize their religious faith because the cross is a symbol of Christianity. Others just find the shape visually appealing. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of cross necklaces.
- 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 23, 2024Yes, it is generally okay to wear a necklace with a cross on it. To many people, the cross is a symbol of Christian faith, and they may choose to wear a pendant shaped like one to represent their religious beliefs. However, cross necklaces can also be secular, with some individuals wearing them simply because they like their appearance. Find a variety of cross necklaces on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 12, 2023What a wooden cross necklace means is open to interpretation. However, many people associate the style with Christianity. Jesus Christ was crucified on a wooden cross, so Christians may wear necklaces that feature a wooden cross-shaped pendant as a reminder of his sacrifice. Remember that cross necklaces can also be secular, with some people choosing to wear them simply because they like how they look. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of cross necklaces.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023What size cross necklace is best for a man is a matter of personal taste. If you want a subtle look, consider pendants that are 1 inch tall or less and chains that are 18 to 20 inches in length. Larger pendants and longer chains will stand out more. Shop an assortment of cross necklaces on 1stDibs.
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