St. Benedict loved the cross and used it to drive away demons.

The vertical beam of the Cross has five letters:

C.S.S.M.L., meaning Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux (May the holy Cross be for me a light).

The horizontal beam of the Cross also has five letters:
N.D.S.M.D., meaning Non Draco Sit Mihi Dux (Let not the dragon be my guide).

The four large letters at the angles of the Cross:
C S P B stand for Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti (The Cross of the Holy Father Benedict).

Encircling the Cross in a circle around the right margin are these letters: V.R.S.N.S.M.V.,>
meaning Vade retro Satana; nunquam suade mihi vana
(Begone Satan! Suggest not to me thy vain things).

Around the left margin of the circle are these letters:
S.M.Q.L.I.V.B., meaning Sunt mala quae libas; ipse venena bibas

(The drink you offer is evil; drink that poison yourself).

At the top of the circle is the word PAX (Peace).

Gold Vermeil Center pendants are 18karat gold plate over sterling.