Templar Cross Necklace: Meaning and How to Wear It

A Templar cross necklace is a contemporary piece of jewelry inspired by the crosses, symbols, and history associated with the Order of the Temple. Depending on the shape of the pendant, its size, its material, and the length of its chain, it can either remain subtle or become the main element of an outfit.

However, these creations should not automatically be considered as reproductions of pendants historically worn by the Knights Templar. They are, above all, a contemporary reinterpretation of medieval symbols.

But which cross should you choose? What is the difference between a Templar cross, a cross pattée, a Jerusalem Cross, and a Maltese Cross? What chain length is suitable for a man? And how can you tell if a pendant will be subtle or imposing once worn?

This guide helps you understand the meaning of the main motifs and verify the essential criteria before choosing your necklace.

What is a Templar cross necklace?

The term "Templar cross necklace" now refers to various pendants inspired by the Order of the Temple and, more broadly, by the medieval Christian and chivalric world.

They may notably represent:

• a red cross associated with the Templars;
• a cross pattée;
• a seal or a motif linked to the Order of the Temple;
• a sword or a shield;
• a Latin phrase;
• other crosses from the history of the crusades or military religious orders.

The meaning of a necklace therefore depends above all on the symbol actually depicted on the pendant. Not all medieval crosses are Templar, and not all inscriptions associated with the Temple today have the same historical status.

What is the meaning of a Templar cross?

The red cross is one of the signs most strongly associated with the Order of the Temple. It is notably linked to the visual identity of the brother knights who wore the white mantle marked with a red cross.

However, one should avoid turning this historical association into a list of certain meanings. Concepts such as faith, sacrifice, courage, or commitment may be associated with this symbol today, but they are partly based on religious and contemporary readings.

On a modern necklace, a red cross therefore immediately refers to the history and lore of the Order of the Temple, while leaving the wearer the freedom to give it a personal meaning.

To place this cross among the other emblems: Templar symbols: meaning of crosses, seals, and mottos .

Is the cross pattée a Templar cross?

The cross pattée is generally recognized by its arms that widen towards their ends. There are several variations of this shape, and it should not be imagined as a single, perfectly standardized design.

This geometry is historically attested in the Templar environment, but the cross pattée existed before the Order of the Temple and was not exclusively used by them.

On a contemporary pendant, its broad arms make it particularly visible and easily identifiable, even when the piece of jewelry remains relatively compact.

To learn more: Cross Pattée: meaning of the Templar symbol .

Templar cross, Jerusalem Cross, and Maltese Cross: what are the differences?

Several crosses originating from medieval history are brought together today in chivalric-inspired jewelry. However, they possess neither the same shape nor the same origin.

The Maltese Cross is therefore not a Templar cross. It belongs to the history of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, even though both orders belong to the same broad context of medieval military religious orders.

To learn more: Maltese Cross: meaning, origin, and link with the Templars .

And for the Jerusalem Cross: Jerusalem Cross: meaning, origin, and history .

Inscriptions and mottos on Templar necklaces

Some pendants combine a cross with a Latin inscription. Here again, not all formulas linked to the Templar world today have the same origin.

Non Nobis Domine comes from a biblical psalm and is today one of the expressions most traditionally associated with the Temple.

Deus Vult belongs primarily to the tradition of the first crusade, which began before the founding of the Order of the Temple.

A formula can therefore be consistent with the world of a contemporary Templar piece of jewelry without being a historically attested institutional motto of the Order.

To understand these differences: Templar mottos: meaning of Templar formulas .

And for the biblical origin of the formula: Non Nobis Domine: meaning and origin .

Which type of Templar pendant should you choose?

The shape of the pendant influences both its appearance and the message it conveys.

Which pendant size should you choose?

The size of the pendant is one of the most important criteria to check before buying. A close-up photograph can make a necklace appear much larger than it actually is, or conversely, mask the imposing nature of a model.

As indicative benchmarks:

• about 20 to 30 mm: relatively subtle pendant;
• about 30 to 45 mm: intermediate and versatile size;
• more than 45 mm: generally a much more visually present pendant.

These categories are approximate. The width, thickness, and shape of the pendant count as much as its height. A thin 45 mm cross may seem more subtle than a circular medallion of similar dimensions.

Before choosing, therefore, check:

• the height of the pendant;
• its width;
• its thickness when indicated;
• worn photographs;
• available customer reviews.

To discover feedback concerning in particular the visual size of the jewelry: Templar jewelry reviews: what do customers think of Comptoir Templier? .

Which chain length should you choose for a man?

The length of the chain determines where the pendant falls on the chest. It therefore strongly alters the look of the necklace, even with the exact same pendant.

These benchmarks vary according to height, build, and neck size. Always check the exact length provided with the chosen model.

Which material should you choose for a Templar necklace?

The material influences the weight, maintenance, appearance, and price of the necklace. Not all models in the collection are offered in the same materials.

The material of the pendant and that of the chain can also be different depending on the model. Therefore, always consult the exact characteristics of the product page.

Silver-colored, black, or gold-colored: which finish should you choose?

The finish mainly affects the contemporary aesthetic look. It is not necessary to attribute a specific historical meaning to black, silver, or gold.

Which Templar necklace should you choose?

The best choice depends primarily on the symbol, dimensions, and intended use.

Before choosing, always compare pendant size, chain length, material, and worn photos. A product photograph alone does not always allow for a proper assessment of how the necklace will actually look.

How to wear a Templar cross necklace?

A Templar necklace generally works best when it remains consistent with the rest of the outfit. The more imposing the pendant, the less necessary it is to layer other highly visible accessories.

A small cross can easily be worn under a shirt or T-shirt and remain relatively discreet. A large pendant, on the other hand, naturally becomes a centerpiece when worn over clothing.

Sober clothing—black, white, gray, beige, denim, or leather—generally allows for good visibility of the pendant.

Because a necklace can stay under clothing, some people also give it a more personal dimension than they would a ring or bracelet. Depending on the individual, the piece of jewelry may evoke faith, an attachment to history, or simply a medieval aesthetic.

Is a Templar necklace a good gift idea?

Yes. A necklace is generally simpler to give as a gift than a ring since it is not necessary to know the precise size of a finger.

However, you should check two elements before purchasing: the length of the chain and the dimensions of the pendant.

A person accustomed to discreet jewelry will generally prefer a small cross or a compact medallion. Conversely, a lover of imposing jewelry will appreciate a large pendant worn lower on the chest more.

Did the Templars actually wear this type of pendant?

The necklaces offered today under the name "Templar necklaces" are mainly contemporary creations inspired by medieval history.

The historical sources used here do not allow us to claim that the brothers of the Temple commonly wore pendants identical to current models, adorned with a large cross, a seal, or a Latin formula.

The historical link relies mainly on symbols adopted by modern creations: crosses associated with the Temple, seal motifs, documented inscriptions, or more general references to medieval chivalry.

To place these creations in their context: Order of the Temple: origin, history, and fall of the Templars .

Frequently asked questions about Templar cross necklaces

What is a Templar cross necklace?

Today, it is a contemporary piece of jewelry inspired by the crosses, history, and symbols associated with the Order of the Temple.

What is the meaning of a Templar cross?

The red cross is one of the signs most strongly associated with the Order of the Temple. On a contemporary piece of jewelry, it refers to this historical heritage while potentially carrying a personal or religious meaning for the wearer.

Is the cross pattee a Templar cross?

The cross pattee is historically attested in the Templar environment, but it existed before the Order and was not used exclusively by the Templars.

Is the Maltese Cross a Templar cross?

No. The eight-pointed Maltese Cross is historically associated with the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, which later became the Order of Malta.

What pendant size should I choose?

A small pendant will be more suitable for discreet wear, while a large medallion or a wide cross will naturally become the main element of the necklace. Always check the dimensions and the worn photographs.

What chain length should I choose for a man?

A chain of about 45 to 50 cm usually carries the pendant fairly high, while a length of 55 to 60 cm makes it sit lower on the chest. The exact result, however, depends on the body type and neck size.

What material should I choose for a Templar necklace?

This depends on the model, budget, and desired maintenance. Stainless steel is suitable for regular use, while 925 silver is a precious metal that requires more maintenance. Always check the exact material of each product sheet.

How to wear a Templar cross necklace?

A compact pendant can be worn discreetly under clothing. A larger model generally works better as a main piece over a sober outfit.

Did the Templars actually wear the necklaces sold today?

Modern models should be considered contemporary creations inspired by medieval symbols, unless a precise reproduction of a historical object is explicitly documented.

Is a Templar necklace a good gift idea for a man?

Yes, especially because it avoids the sizing issue typical of rings. However, it remains important to check the chain length and the dimensions of the pendant before choosing.

What to remember before choosing a Templar cross necklace?

To choose a Templar cross necklace, start by identifying the symbol you really wish to wear. A red cross, cross pattee, seal, or Latin inscription do not tell exactly the same story.

Then check the pendant size, chain length, material, and finish. A small cross will be more suitable for discreet wear, while a large medallion or a massive cross will naturally become the main piece of the outfit.

Finally, use the worn photographs to judge the actual proportions rather than relying solely on a close-up of the product.

Discover the collection of Templar Necklaces for men .

Historical sources and further reading

• National Archives – The Templars: history and archives of the Order of the Temple
• Sigilla / IRHT – Seal from 1251 bearing a cross pattee in a Templar context
• AELF – Psalm 113B: biblical origin of Non Nobis Domine
• Sovereign Order of Malta – History of the eight-pointed cross