A
pectoral cross or
pectorale (from the
Latin pectoralis, "of the
chest") is a
cross that is worn on the chest, usually suspended from the neck by a cord or
chain. In ancient and medieval times pectoral crosses were worn by both
clergy and
laity, but by the end of the
Middle Ages the pectoral cross came to be a special indicator of position worn by bishops, and the wearing of a pectoral cross is now restricted to popes, cardinals, bishops and abbots. The modern pectoral cross is relatively large, and is different from the small
crosses worn on necklaces by many Christians. Most pectoral crosses are made of precious metals (platinum, gold or silver) and some contain precious or semi-precious gems. Some contain a corpus like a
crucifix while others use stylized designs and religious symbols.