Silver cross 068

Orthodox Crucifix Silver Cross Pendant

A deeply symbolic Orthodox cross pendant filled with sacred imagery, Church Slavonic inscriptions, and traditional Christian meaning.

The front of the cross features the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ, shown in detailed raised relief. On each side of Christ stand the Mother of God and Saint John the Theologian, reflecting the Gospel scene at the foot of the Cross. Their presence adds a powerful sense of sorrow, faithfulness, and love — a reminder that the Cross is not only a place of suffering, but also the place where salvation is revealed.

Around the Crucifixion are traditional Orthodox inscriptions, including:

ІС ХС — Jesus Christ
ЦРЬ СЛАВЫ — King of Glory
ІНЦІ — Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews
НИКА — Conquers / Is victorious

Together, these inscriptions proclaim the central message of the Cross: Jesus Christ conquers — over sin, death, and evil.

At the base of the cross is the skull, traditionally representing Golgotha, the place of the Crucifixion, and the ancient Christian tradition of Adam’s skull beneath the Cross. This detail reminds us that through Christ’s sacrifice, death is overcome and humanity is offered redemption.

The reverse side continues the sacred imagery. At the top is Спас Нерукотворний — Christ “Not Made by Hands,” one of the most revered images in Eastern Christian tradition, representing the holy face of Christ and His divine presence.

In the center of the back are three saintly figures. The middle figure is Saint Nicholas, one of the most beloved saints of the Christian world, traditionally venerated as a protector of children, travelers, sailors, the poor, and those in need. On one side is Saint Apostle Peter, the chief apostle, symbol of faith, repentance, and spiritual leadership. On the other side is Saint Apostle Paul, the great missionary and teacher of the Church, symbol of conversion, courage, and devotion to the Gospel.

At the bottom of the reverse side is the inscription Спаси и сохрани, meaning “Save and protect” — a beloved Orthodox prayer often found on devotional crosses and amulets.

The bail also carries sacred symbolism: one side features a cherub, representing heavenly glory and divine presence, while the other side shows the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove, symbolizing grace, peace, guidance, and the presence of God.

The oxidized background gives depth to the sacred scenes, while the polished sterling silver highlights make each raised detail stand out with strength and clarity.

Details:

• Material: Sterling Silver

• Pendant size: 52 x 23 mm

• Bail size: 5.5 x 4.5 mm

• Weight: approximately 17 g
  Slight variations may occur from piece to piece.

• Please note: pendant only; chain sold separately

• Front: Crucifixion of Jesus Christ with the Mother of God and Saint John

• Back: Спас Нерукотворний, Saint Nicholas, Saint Apostle Peter, Saint Apostle Paul

• Bail: cherub and Holy Spirit in the form of a dove

• Inscription: Спаси и сохрани — “Save and protect”

• Oxidized details for depth and contrast

• Polished silver raised highlights

Symbolism:

• The Crucifixion — sacrifice, redemption, and divine love

• Mother of God and Saint John — faithfulness, sorrow, and love at the Cross

• Спас Нерукотворний — the holy face of Christ and divine presence

• Saint Nicholas — protection, generosity, and care for those in need

• Saint Peter — faith, repentance, and apostolic leadership

• Saint Paul — conversion, courage, and preaching of the Gospel

• Holy Spirit as a dove — grace, peace, and guidance

• Cherub — heavenly glory and divine presence

• Спаси и сохрани — prayer for salvation and protection