Few symbols carry as much history as the Knights Templar cross. The plain red cross worn by a medieval military order has become a lasting emblem of faith, courage and brotherhood. This guide explains where the Templar cross comes from, what it means, how it differs from similar crosses, and what to look for in a Templar pendant or ring.
Who Were the Knights Templar?
The Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, better known as the Knights Templar, were founded around 1119–1120 in Jerusalem to protect pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land. The Church formally recognized the order at the Council of Troyes in 1129, and it grew into one of the most powerful institutions of medieval Europe, with estates, castles and an early banking network. The order was dissolved in 1312 by Pope Clement V.
What Does the Templar Cross Mean?
According to commonly cited accounts, Pope Eugene III granted the Templars the right to wear a red cross on their white mantles around 1147. The symbolism is usually read in layers:
- Red – martyrdom and the willingness to shed blood for the faith.
- White mantle – purity and the monastic vows the knights took.
- The cross itself – devotion to Christ and to the protection of the faithful.
- Brotherhood – a shared identity among knights who lived by one rule.
The order's motto, "Non nobis, Domine, non nobis, sed nomini tuo da gloriam" ("Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory"), sums up the humility the cross was meant to represent.
Templar Cross Shapes
There was no single standardized design. Templar crosses appear in several forms, most often the cross pattée, with arms that flare outward at the ends, and simpler equal-armed crosses. Modern Templar jewelry usually uses the cross pattée.
| Cross | Associated with | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Cross pattée (Templar cross) | Knights Templar | Arms flare outward, usually red |
| Maltese cross | Knights Hospitaller (Order of Malta) | Eight points, V-shaped arms |
| Jerusalem cross | Kingdom of Jerusalem | One large cross with four small crosses |
The Maltese cross is often confused with the Templar cross, but it belongs to the Hospitallers, a separate military order. You can see the difference in our Maltese Cross Signet Ring.
The Templar Seal: Two Knights on One Horse
The best-known Templar seal shows two knights riding a single horse. It is usually interpreted as a sign of the order's early poverty and of brotherhood. Our Knights Templar Seal Pendant reproduces this image in sterling silver.
Choosing Templar Jewelry
Templar jewelry is worn as a sign of Christian faith, as a tribute to history, or simply for its strong medieval look. Popular choices include:
- Knights Templar Cross Pendant – the classic cross pattée.
- Templar Knight Pendant – a knight figure with shield and cross.
- Templar Cross Signet Ring – a bold everyday signet.
- Templar Knight Ring and Templar Lion Signet Ring – for a more detailed, sculptural design.
Each piece is made to order in 925 sterling silver. Oxidized silver is our signature finish because it brings out the detail of the cross and the seal; polished, gold-plated and rose-gold-plated finishes are also available, and silver designs can be made in 10K, 14K or 18K gold on request. Browse more designs in Historical Pendants, Historical Rings and Religious Pendants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to wear a Templar cross?
Yes. Today the Templar cross is worn mainly as a Christian symbol and a historical emblem of courage and brotherhood. As with any symbol, the meaning comes from the person wearing it.
Is the Templar cross the same as the Maltese cross?
No. The Templar cross is usually a cross pattée; the eight-pointed Maltese cross belongs to the Knights Hospitaller.
What chain length suits a Templar pendant?
Most men choose 22–24 inches so the pendant sits on the chest. See our Necklace Size Guide and chains.
How long does delivery take?
Each piece is prepared in 2–3 days and shipped in 4–5 business days to most destinations (7–10 days worldwide). All jewelry comes with a lifetime warranty.
How do I care for oxidized silver?
Wipe gently with a soft cloth and avoid silver dips, which remove the dark finish. Read our Jewelry Care Guide.