A crucifix pendant is recognized worldwide as an outward symbol of a deep faith in Jesus Christ. While a crucifix may be worn by anyone with a Christian faith-and more recently some people who do not understand the Christian faith may have started wearing them as more of a fashion statement than anything else-the people most likely to own and wear a crucifix pendant are those Christians who practice the Roman Catholic faith.
Roman Catholics tend to wear a crucifix more often than a simple cross pendant because the practice of their faith centers intently on the sacrifice Jesus Christ made for all men when He was crucified on the cross. Many other Christian faiths tend to focus more predominantly on the resurrection and less prominently on His suffering and death, so they often favor a plain cross.
Roman Catholics believe it is beneficial to stay mindful of Christ's suffering because it keeps them humble and thankful for his gift of salvation. It is the basis of their Christian belief that Christ's death on the cross is what makes it possible for them to go to heaven one day. And wearing a crucifix pendant reminds them daily-and throughout the day-of His sacrifice for them.
Crucifix pendants can range in price from just a few dollars to hundreds of dollars and more, depending on what they are made of. Most crucifixes are made of metals such as oxidized or enameled metals or precious metals like sterling silver and yellow or white gold. They may be gold filled or gold or silver plated. Crucifix pendants may also be made of wood, pewter, onyx, resin, black carbon fiber, or a combination of materials or metals. Occasionally, you will find crucifix pendants with cubic zirconia or semi-precious stones inlaid into the cross.
If you are purchasing a gift for someone you know to be a Roman Catholic, a crucifix pendant will be a wonderful choice and is sure to be treasured for many years. Crucifix pendant make beautiful gifts for a baptism, first communion, or confirmation. You can get them in different sizes appropriate to an infant, a child, or an adult with chains of different lengths, as well.
Speaking of chains, many crucifix pendants come with a chain while others are sold separately so the wearer can select the length and style of chain he or she prefers. Chains may be gold or silver, fine or coarse, or even a flat style. Alternately, crucifix pendants may be worn on a cord for a more modern or masculine look.
Since a crucifix pendant is likely to be worn for extended periods of time and may not be removed frequently, it is best to purchase a crucifix made from a high grade of metal that will not tarnish or corrode. Of course, the higher the quality of the materials, the higher the price is likely to be, but you can purchase a very nice crucifix pendant for less than $50.
While the highest quality crucifix pendants are most likely going to be found in a fine jewelry store, prices there will also be higher than through other sources. Christian and Catholic bookstores and gift shops also sell crucifix pendants, as do many online venues. In fact, you can get crucifix pendants at many department stores, as well, as they are very popular.