As a shape and image that’s quickly recognized by almost everyone, cross tattoos are amongst the highly popular designs that can be made unique for every individual. It’s ideal for both men and women alike, which they seek for a myriad of fascinating reasons. Not only do they favor its unsurpassed beauty when laden on the skin, but for the deeper meaning that lies within a cross. What exactly do they express and why do many people wish to have one artistically drawn on their body?
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Cross Tattoo Representations
Though the most apparent meaning is in regards to faith, cross tattoo actually hold various symbolisms and can mean differently for every person in today’s diversity of people. The horizontal component of the cross pertained to feminine characteristics defined by earthiness and passiveness, while the vertical component depicted its masculine representation infused with an active and eternal quality. Whether devoted or not and in respect to the one another’s own beliefs, anyone can acquire cross tattoo! To some, it serves as a cherished memory of loved one who has left this world. The cross would appear wrapped around delicate cloth bearing the name of the person dear to them or a particular significant date.
Others deem it as a symbol of the endless circle of life, in the form of the Celtic cross which is the oldest version featuring a circle right at its center. The solid black tribal styles is recognizably the Tribal cross tattoo that is associated with the rule of ancestors, connecting people from the past to the present. The Gothic cross displays the said culture and are often entwined in dragons, snakes and other interesting creatures. The Maltese cross flaunts bravery and the selfless sacrifice people make for the sake of others and dedication in performing one’s duties. These are only some of the most remarkable cross tattoo, and there are many other forms in vast colors, sizes and shapes where there’s surely one for everybody!
Carrying the Cross in Style
The Celtic cross tattoo and Tribal cross designs are mostly seen in men. Most guys also simply prefer the plain cross where they get the freedom to express themselves. Nothing’s stopping them from unleashing their imagination and creativity as they come up with their own works of art for a tattoo artist to manifest into their bodies! They can get it done almost anywhere, but the middle of the upper back, upper arms, lower leg are the typically most attractive places, where one can go all-out in full length if desired.
Ladies look quite sexy with tattoos on the shoulder blade, lower back, or the lower leg. One of their favorites is the Egyptian theme found mostly in jewelry that signifies life and giving life, or the union of men and women. Women fancy the celtic cross tattoo, since it can be given a beautiful twist of a chic and stylish, sophisticated look to enhance their overall appeal. They love the cross in its finely detailed miniature scheme, but are likewise free to have cross tattoo of any size and design to suit their taste!
Cross tattoos are a favorite for many tattoo enthusiasts, whether it is actually their first time getting inked or their nth time having a design made. Incredibly versatile and perfect for both men and women, cross tattoos are often connected with religion and Christianity. You will find, however, that this is not always the case.
- Maltese Cross – The Maltese cross is often found on firefighters and policemen. Unlike the Catholic cross, the arms of the Maltese are symmetrical with each other and look much like an edged four-leaf clover. This particular cross signifies courage and sacrifice.
- Christian or Catholic Cross – Possibly one of the most popular designs today, the Christian cross is religious in nature. In its most basic, the cross tattoo signifies the suffering of Jesus Christ for the sins of man. For others, it is a reminder of the triumph of Jesus over death. Additional elements may be thrown in for design purposes such as a rosary, roses, crown of thorns, and the image of Jesus Christ nailed on the cross.
- Celtic Cross – Also known as the Irish Cross, this particular design can be recognized for the circle that is located on the center of the cross. It is often portrayed in blue or black but there are those that prefer the color green in reference to its Irish descent. Traditionally, the Celtic cross represents hope, life, faith, unity, balance, honor, ascension, and temperance. It is said that each arm also represents higher wisdom with the circle a symbol of balance and the transition of the seasons.
- Ankh Cross – The Ankh Cross is a common image in Egyptian hieroglyphics. Egyptian gods and goddesses are often portrayed holding the Ankh in their hands which symbolizes eternal life or immortality. Like the Celtic cross, this design is easily recognizable because of the bubble like figure at the top branch of the cross. At first glance, the cross looks much like a person with the bubble representing the head of an individual. The noble meaning of the symbol, however, is unquestioned and often it is done in shades of gold in deference to royalty.
- Gothic Cross – Also gaining popularity, the Gothic Cross is identified by its sinister theme. Typically, crosses of this design have dark themes and intricate patterns. Dark themes are in the form of added elements like bats, skulls, ravens, coffin, skeletons, and others.
- Tribal Cross – Tribal cross ink is perhaps one of the most eye-catching designs yet. There are no specific patterns to this type of cross as the layout depends entirely on the preferences of the person having the tattoo. They are often colorful and designed to catch the eye. As to meaning, tribal tattoos are generally seen as a sign of being part of a group or a community. A tribal cross therefore may follow the same reasoning. More often than not, users of this design add other elements to make the tattoo more customized for their intended meaning.
Cross tattoo may be placed on practically every part of the body from the back of the ear to the broad expanse of the back. They are highly versatile so you have the option of making it as grand as possible or keeping it simple and understated.
1. Gothic Cross Rib Tattoo Cross Tattoo
Covering half of the abdomen across the right side rib, this huge cross tattoo design is inspiring with its beautiful form. The finely inked borders with pointed edges surround the frame of the cross, which then again surrounds endlessly interlocking chains that are centered within a square center.
2. Black and Blue Cross Back Tattoo Cross Tattoo
Featuring a vivid blue center with the letter H, surrounded by an intricate round oval frame, this cross tattoo rests gracefully at the middle of the back. Delicate loops and curves further enhance and extend on four sides to create the cross frame, arriving in solid black color and thick white borders.
3. Red Heart and Rose Winged-Cross Tattoo
An ornate tattoo that cradles a small bright heart at the center, while a rose in full bloom carries the skillfully crafted cross. Wings spread out towards either side, looking soft and feathery white. Altogether, the whole picture on the lower arm produces an astounding lovely effect.
4. Celtic Winged Cross
A thick and bold cross is lined with white borders then filled with the brilliance of black. Pointed loops elaborate the edges while the patterned circle surrounds the diamond frame right at the center. This Celtic cross rules the back of the body with beautiful humongous wings draped on it.
5. Back Cross Masterpiece Cross Tattoo
A banner scribbled with the word strength wraps around a cross nestled on elegantly drawn wings. Its feathers are finely outlined, while black and grey shades give it depth and texture. Exquisite letterings enhance this masterpiece covering almost the entirety of the back and shoulders.
6. Only God Can Judge Me Tattoo
The complex details of this cross and the wings that carry it make up its unique design as one of the most attractive tattoos ideas. The cross has pointed edges and a seemingly embossed body, with a ribbon featuring a message looped gracefully around it.
7. Fragile Remembrance Tattoo
One of the most remarkable cross tattoo ideas to acquire on the upper arm and flaunt on sleeveless shirts is this remembrance emblem. The cross has delicately lined borders, is filled with faint lines, then wrapped with a fragile ribbon with the name and date when beloved grandad passed away.
8. Cross with Rosary Chain Tattoo
A thick cross gives a strong impression as it yields a striking appearance at the top right back shoulder. It centers a decorative diamond and star, then the beaded chain is looped towards the tip. It dangles downward to end with another small cross that’s part of the rosary.
9. Celtic Cross Gem Tattoo Cross Tattoo
A cross is elongated from the base of the nape going down the middle and towards the lower back. Centered amidst the circle is a stunning gem-like round object. This cross tattoo ideas has a simple white lining, yet elegant knots and dainty curves, a dove, and what looks like a goblet is found within.
10. Big Cross Wrist Tattoo Tribal Cross Tattoo
One of the most intricately inked cross tattoo is this tribal design extending from the wrist to the forearm. The cross is filled with loops, flowers of knots, and pointed tips, while the circle across the intersection is filled with the tiniest of details.
11. Cross Key 3D Tattoo Cross Tattoo Designs
Very realistic in form, this 3D cross tattoo idea is created with a thin and sleek cross that stimulates a key. The tip is crafted with a combination of curved and pointed edges, while it extends downward with a skeleton bone ending with the key wards and bit.
12. Beautiful Rosary Foot Tattoo Cross Tattoo Designs
Beads tart off from the calf of the foot, going down the ankle bone and attaching itself to a small black shining diamond shape. It clings on to a cross laden on the middle foot featuring fancy embellishments and ornate details that yield a sexy and sophisticated look.
13. Flower Cross Full Back Tattoo Cross Tattoo Designs
Vines of roses crawl upon this large cross inked throughout the middle of the back. The frame elicits great strength with edges that look like anchors with sharp tips that curve outwards. The intersection is left unshaded, where a message is scribbled in artistic lettering by the tattoo artist.
14. Divine Winged-Cross Remembrance Tattoo Design
A striking sleeve tattoo with a fragile cross tinted with cracks is supported by the divine ambiance of heavily feathered wings that flutter skyward. A banner flows around the cross with a dear person’s name and significant dates written on it.
15. Hand Carrying A Cross Sleeve Tattoo
Raised by a hand towards the heavens is a wooden cross tattoo design, as if emitting rays of light amidst white clouds as a backdrop. It is small but very thick and looks invulnerable to anything with its glowing strength and prowess.
16. Filigree Gothic Cross Chest Tattoo
Sprawled from shoulder to shoulder across the blades, vines of intricate curves carry the weight of the big cross hanging at the middle of the chest. The center of the frame appears to hold a smaller ornate cross within, which endlessly forms more curves and lines throughout the filigree cross design.
17. Strikingly Beautiful Small Cross Tattoo
An image that could be the simplest of all cross tattoos, but may be the most noteworthy of all. A thin-bodied small cross is inked right at the center of the back, giving off a minimalist appeal that is very striking and alluring to both sexes.
18. Stylish Tribal Cross Chest Tattoo
This design belongs among the most good-looking tribal tattoos ideas covering about half of the chest towards the top left shoulder. The bold and heavy small cross is entwined in lines and curves as if it is floating on the body.
19. Stone Cross 3D Leg Tattoo
A stone cross design that looks traditional and awe-inspiring with veins of lines all over it. The 3D effects enhance the banner with the words Risen Savior scribbled on it that wraps around the top and bottom of the cross.
20. Small Cross Neck Tattoo
Among today’s modern cross tattoos idea is this small icon inked on the left side of the neck. The simple small cross is boldly illustrated and surrounded by a circle that’s comprised of a number of tiny lines that elicit a glowing look.
21. Sexy cross tattoo on girl’s neck
This is probably a great cross tattoo idea for anyone who not only wants something sexy on the back of their necks but also wants something religious. The tattoo is of a simple cross tattoo that is completely black. It also has a bible verse written along the stipe, reading 2COR 12:9.
22. Cool cross tattoo on a guy’s arm
This is a fantastic cross tattoo idea that again, suits an individual who is deeply religious. The tattoo consists of three nails joined together to make a cross. Above the cross, the word ‘Galatians’ is written. The number 6:17 is written just above the left arm of the cross while the initials ‘AMP’ is written just above the right arm of the cross.
23. Tiny cross tattoo on girls’ finger
This is the perfect cross tattoo for anyone who wants something small that is going to be easily concealed. The tattoo is of a tiny black cross that has been drawn on a girl’s finger in such a way that the tattoo can easily be hidden when the fingers are held together.
24. Cute cross tattoo on girl’s wrist
This is the perfect cross tattoo for anyone who wants something sexy on their wrists. The tattoo depicts a simple black cross that is completely black in color save for a little heart shape at the intersection of the cross that is white in color.
25. Simple cross tattoo on girl’s neck
Of all the possible cross tattoos that one may decide to have on their bodies, this is probably one of the simplest ones that one can place on their necks. The tattoo depicts a simple cross that is completely back in color.
26. Cute cross tattoo on girl’s back
This is one of those cross tattoos whose beauty lies in its simplicity. The tattoo is of a simple black tattoo placed in the area just below the neck but is between the shoulders.
27. Simple black cross tattoo on girl’s neck
This is a very simple cross tattoo design that is best drawn on a part of the body that would best show its simplicity. The tattoo is of a simple black cross tattoo placed on the girl’s neck.
28. Detailed cross tattoo on girl’s neck
This is a simple yet elegant cross tattoo design that is best drawn on a girl’s back. The tattoo depicts a cross tattoo that has been drawn in fancy flowery patterns.
29. Awesome cross tattoo on girl’s neck
This is probably one of the most detailed cross tattoo ideas that one can have on their necks. The tattoo depicts a cross done in fancy designs. The tattoo has a red jewel placed at its center to give it an authentic look.
30. Cute cross tattoo on a girls back
This is one of the best cross tattoo ideas that are best placed on a girls back. The tattoo itself is simple. It is completely black with a few fancy patterns or shapes at the crosses four tips.
31. Sexy black cross tattoo on a girl’s back
This is a simple yet sexy tattoo that suits anyone who wants something sexy on their backs. The tattoo itself depicts a black cross with tiny love patterns running along its length and width. The cross’s length and width also appears to be very wide as compared to the usual size of a stipe and patibulum.
32. Simple cross tattoo on a girl’s neck
The tattoo depicts a simple cross tattoo that is completely black. The cross has a slightly slender stipe and patibulum. The stipe also appears to be slightly longer than it usually is.
33. Cute cross tattoo on girls back
This is a simple yet elegant tattoo that is best placed on the top of a girl’s back. The cross is completely black and has a slightly wide stipe and patibulum. The stipe also appears to be slightly longer than its usual height.
34. Sexy cross tattoo on girl’s side
This sexy tattoo of a cross is on a girl’s side, just above the waist and running along the rib cage. The tattoo itself depicts a black cross which appears to be standing upright.
35. Sexy cross tattoo on a girl’s neck
This is a simple tattoo of a cross that has been drawn on the area that is just below the neck but between the shoulders. The cross is completely black without any form of details or patterns worked into it.
36. Simple black tattoo on a girl’s shoulder blade
This is simple tattoo of a cross that is best placed on the shoulder blade. The cross is completely black with really thin parts with an elongated bottom part than is usual.
37. Sexy black tattoo on a girl’s back
This tattoo depicts a very sexy cross which is very detailed. The cross has different shades of black and white as its primary colors. It also has a lot of details and patterns worked into it to give it a sexy look.
38. Simple black cross tattoo on a girl’s wrist
This is a simple tattoo of a cross that is completely black in color, with no detailing to it or any patterns worked into it. The tattoo is really small, placed on the wrist and can easily be concealed.
39. Sexy cross tattoo on a girls arm
This is a simple yet elegant tattoo of a cross which has taken a break from the norm that is simplicity in cross tattoos to have a bit of some detail. The cross has been drawn in such a way that some flowery patterns have been worked into the design to give it an authentic look.
40. Tiny black cross tattoo on a guy’s heel
This is probably one of those tattoos that are easily concealed. The tattoo itself is very simple and tiny. It takes the shape of a tiny black cross that has been drawn on a guy’s heel. The tattoo can be easily concealed by wearing a pair of shoes or a pair of socks.
41. Cross with Bible Verse Shoulder Tattoo
Appearing like a hand-painted black ink, this cross tattoo laden at the back towards the left shoulder is quite a unique design. A favorite bible chapter with verse is scribbled at the bottom, making it a lot more meaningful than it already is.
42. White Ink Cross Wrist Tattoo
A one-of-a-kind tattoo adored by many, this cross is drawn at the wrist with white ink! It looks cool much like an imprint and is almost barely noticeable, but once it does get seen, the beautiful white cross never fails to leave a lasting impression to anyone who catches a glimpse of it.
43. Tiny Cross Finger Tattoo
Nice and neat, simple yet beautiful, small but huge in meaning. This tiny cross symbol rests on the side of the middle finger and is inked very thinly, yet exhibits solid black lines. It’s the perfect tattoo that can be completely hidden out of sight whenever you wish!
44. Sleek Cross Arm Tattoo
This sleek and sophisticated cross is one of the simplest but most elegant tattoos ideas that blends perfectly on the lower arm. The large cross is drawn with somewhat thick and dark, vivid black lines which rest gracefully on the skin.
45. Beautiful Cross Feminine Leg Tattoo
Highly attractive and may be the sexiest of all cross tattoos found on the leg! This design is created with long, delicate lines that intersect, curve, and entwine to ultimately form a beautiful cross with tiny dots marking each of its rounded edges.
46. Cross Infinity Tattoo
This inspiring tattoo blends perfectly on the wrist featuring the infinity symbol. It goes into its usual endless loop, passing through the gracefully written word ‘Believe’ and forming a small but boldly inked cross on one side. The cross and infinity loop produces the ideal combination with so much promising meaning within.
47. Be Still Wrist Tattoo
Words that instantly elicit a calming and very tranquil scene, such as what this tattoo presents. “Be Still.” They are written in beautiful script across the wrist, with the serenity matched by a tiny meaningful cross placed right at the end.
48. Long Cross Wrist Tattoo
Simple but strikingly beautiful. These characteristics perfectly describe this elegant long cross tattoo design that is laden on the wrist, right above where a watch would typically be worn, or maybe hidden underneath for a discreet nicely inked tattoo.
49. Three Flying Birds and Cross Shoulder Tattoo
Among the sexiest cross tattoo ideas ranks this artistic back top-shoulder accent, depicting three birds fluttering their wings and soaring high above a long cross symbol. The brilliance of black enhances the entire picture and is quite remarkable to flaunt wherever you go.
50. Cross Tattoo Behind Ear
Found at the back of the ear is a small, thin, and fragile cross tattoo that looks so elegant and attractive. The little cross is drawn in black ink behind the ear and looks so lovely especially with glamorous earrings worn on the lobes.
51. Small Cross Behind Ear Tattoo
A cross is scribbled almost freely yet gracefully behind the ear and elicits an astounding effect, especially with the hair pulled back to flaunt this sexy tattoo. It looks cute for it is small, and can be perfectly hidden under long hair.
52. Top Left Cross Shoulder Tattoo
A brilliant cross tattoos idea that entails a vivid black cross to be inked near the shoulder blade. It looks very neatly done with a straight outline and slanted edges finishing every tip of the icon, yielding nothing short of a perfect cross.
53. Rosary Finger Tattoo
One of the best cross tattoos that is alluring with a small rosary delicately wrapped around the middle finger. It has the tiniest beads dotted along the strings which altogether end into a similarly tiny, cute and simple cross.
54. Cross of Strength Tattoo
Exquisite black lines of ink define this cross emblem, with bolder tips starting from the outer part that eventually thins out towards the center. The word ‘Strength’ is infused at the center of the cross in fluid and flowy script writing.
55. Cross Arrow Tattoo on Side Wrist
The finest and thinnest lines are used in this cross tattoo design, yet it creates a fantastic image. It looks like a directional arrow with a pointed head and somewhat bolder nock at the bottom, with a scanty line drawn across the middle to depict the image of a cross.
56. Gotta Have Faith Tattoo
You’ve gotta have faith, literally inked on your arm with this utterly beautiful cross tattoos idea which shows the word Faith with the letter T as the cross. The curves of the lettering, the fabulous highlight and the cuteness of the cross altogether make it simply irresistible.
57. Dainty Blue Framed Cross
A plain thick cross is filled with solid blue color, then carefully lined with black ink, and finally enhanced with the vintage look of the surrounding frame. The soft curves and loops give off dazzling elegance when displayed on any dress or piece of clothing with a bare back.
58. Artistic Cross Ankle Tattoo
A true work of art with a simple cross tattoo nicely inked in thin lines on the ankle. It looks sexy whatever type of footwear is worn, if any. Slanting curves go from the side to the bottom of the cross, ending in smaller curves then embellished by little dots on each side.
59. Pure Small Cross Wrist Tattoo
One among the minimalist tattoos ideas is this very little cross found at the left side of the wrist. It may be small, yet looks solidly strong. The simple design almost expresses purity and simplicity in form, while the boldness of the figure gives off admirable strength in commitment in beliefs and faith.
60. Inspiring Rosary Index Finger Tattoo
Cute, unique, fun, and awe-inspiring at the same time. This belongs to the best cross tattoo ideas that looks great on the index finger. The design presents a tiny beaded rosary with a dotted look, connected together by a diamond at the center, and right below is a cross that’s dangling and glowing attractively.
