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There is a believe that the sideways cross orientation of a necklace symbolizes Jesus Christ carrying the cross, this is one of my favorite interpretations.

It has also been based on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The horizontal orientation of the necklace connotes that Jesus Christ has actually risen and that the cross has already been laid down to signify that humanity has been saved. Sideway crosses are even engraved in tombstones and graves to symbolize resurrection of the soul during the coming of Judgment Day. At the end of the day, the true meaning of the sideway cross will depend on the person who is wearing it.

There seems to be some concern about the orientation of the sideways cross on necklaces, bracelets, and other jewelry. Some people have stated that they find it offensive that the cross is lying down when worn on the neck or wrist. They view the cross as a highly respected, sacred symbol of Christianity, and as such they feel it should only be depicted in an upright position.

But the majority of those speaking out about it, including designers themselves, feel that it is really only a new take on this beautiful traditional symbol. To them it may be a unique artistic view of their faith, or simply a new fashionable piece of jewelry that is unconventional compared to the upright cross pendants that we have long been accustomed to seeing.

In fact, the side cross necklace can actually be worn so that the cross is standing upright if the wearer so desires. All one needs to do is move the chain a few inches to the right or left so that the off-center cross now hangs vertically on the neck.

Several Interpretations

Different people have come up with their own individual interpretations of what does the sideways cross mean. Some of these are:

• It means you are well grounded and self-aware and you clearly recognize your place in the world
• It represents the earth and humanity
• It signifies Jesus Christ carrying the cross and suffering for mankind
• It signifies the cross having been laid down after Jesus Christ has risen
• It shows your readiness for the coming of the Creator, with the cross facing God at final judgment
• It shows you are fashionable – no more, no less