Risen

About Risen: Christian Jewelry Rooted in Faith and the Resurrection

Risen is christian jewelry built around one central image: Christ’s arms outstretched, open, waiting. Not the cross, though we love the cross. This is the moment after. The resurrection. The reminder that He is not in the tomb.

The inspiration comes from the Christus statue, sculpted by Bertel Thorvaldsen and first unveiled in the Church of Our Lady in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1829. That statue, with Christ’s arms reaching downward and outward in welcome, captures something the crucifix doesn’t. It shows a living Savior. One who rose. One who is still reaching.

That’s what Risen is about. Every pendant, bracelet, and piece of faith jewelry we make carries that image with it.

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More Than a Symbol

What you wear says something. A cross around your neck tells the world you believe in His death and sacrifice. Risen takes that statement one step further.

The resurrection changed everything. Because He rose, death is not the end. Because he lives, there is real hope. That’s the message the Risen emblem carries. It’s designed to be worn alongside the crucifix, not instead of it. Together, they tell the full story.

His arms are eternally outstretched. Not because of what you’ve done, but because of who He is. That image, that posture, that open welcome, is what every piece of Risen christian jewelry is meant to remind you of.

The Story Behind the Statue

The Christus statue has a story worth knowing.

Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen spent years trying to get the arms right. Early sketches show Christ with arms raised above his head in a traditional blessing pose. Thorvaldsen wasn't satisfied. He kept reworking it, frustrated that it didn't communicate what he wanted.
The story of how it was finally resolved has a few versions. In one, a friend named Herman Ernst Freund stood with his arms slightly open, palms upward, in a gesture of welcome. Thorvaldsen saw it and said, 'I have it now.' In another version, a wet clay model simply slumped into the pose overnight, and Thorvaldsen, upon seeing it the next morning, locked it in permanently.

Whether it was divine nudge or happy accident, the result is a figure that doesn't demand reverence. It invites closeness. Arms open, head slightly bowed, ready to receive. That posture became the foundation for everything Risen stands for.

The original plaster casting debuted in the Church of Our Lady in 1829. A marble version was completed and mounted in the cathedral in 1839, where it still stands today.

Take a Look Around

Take a short tour inside the historic Church of Our Lady in Copenhagen, home to the original Christus statue that inspires our pendants. This video offers a glimpse into the place, history, and message behind the design.

Shop Risen Christian Jewelry

Every piece in the Risen shop carries that same message. From the Christus necklaces to the faith bracelets, each one is a personal statement about who He is and what you believe. Browse the full collection and find the piece that speaks to you.

”Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

Matthew 11:28-30

Questions About Risen

What is Risen?

Risen is a christian jewelry brand built around the image of the resurrected Christ, specifically the iconic Christus statue by Bertel Thorvaldsen. Every piece features the Risen emblem, an image of Christ with arms outstretched in welcome, and is designed to be worn as a personal statement of faith.

What does the Risen emblem represent?

The Risen emblem is based on the Christus statue, which depicts Jesus after the resurrection with arms reaching outward. Where the crucifix represents His death, the Risen emblem represents His resurrection and the living hope that comes from it. The two symbols are designed to complement each other.

Is Risen jewelry for men, women, or both?

Risen makes christian jewelry for men and women. The necklaces, bracelets, and accessories are designed to be worn by anyone who wants to carry a visible reminder of their faith. Browse the full collection to find what works for you.

Where does the inspiration for Risen come from?

The inspiration is the Christus statue, originally sculpted by Danish artist Bertel Thorvaldsen and first displayed in the Church of Our Lady in Copenhagen in 1829. Thorvaldsen spent years perfecting the position of Christ’s arms before arriving at the open, welcoming pose the statue is now known for. That image, of a Savior ready to receive, became the foundation for the Risen brand.

How is Risen different from a crucifix?

A crucifix focuses on the sacrifice, which is deeply meaningful. Risen focuses on the resurrection. The two are meant to work together. Wearing both tells the whole story: He died for us, and He rose. Because of that, there is real hope. You can see how the Risen emblem works alongside the cross by visiting our shop.

How do I care for my Risen jewelry?

To keep your piece looking its best, avoid prolonged exposure to water, sweat, and harsh chemicals like chlorine or perfume. When not wearing it, store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Gently wipe with a soft cloth to remove oils or fingerprints.

Young adults wearing Christian Fashion.