(noun) - "Cross-stone (or rock)" in Armenian; they are unique to Armenia, though now found in other spots of the globe in tribute and memorial to Armenians. A khachkar - usually formed from basalt or tuff - may be freestanding or in relief, but either type of stone is carved.
Though khachkar from the 4th-century onward most frequently have Christian meanings, the Armenian cross-stone/rock, as a concept, predates the Christian religion into prehistoric times. Khachkar are used as church decoration, gravestones, and to mark military victories or other events of historical significance.
There are some interesting parallels between the patterns of khachkar and Early Celtic crosses, though Armenian crosses end in points (instead of loops), and often incorporate both the tree of life and the pre-Christian symbol for "sun."
