The split cross is a blacksmith tradition. You start with a piece of square stock cut to the length you need (8.5 inches for this one). You split it from one end 5 inches. Flip to the other end, rotate the steel quarter way around, and split up till the two cuts overlap. Then you heat and unfold the piece. The overlapped cuts are what gives you the diamond in the center. I then use my cross pien to rapidly hammer the texture on the cross. Giving it the beautiful wooden appearance. The finish is a bright silver, and it comes ready to hang in your home or office.