Throughout history, the cross in its various shapes and forms, and it has been a meaningful symbol, signifying a variety of values and beliefs. The cross is believed to have originated from the ancient Babylonians. It was used in ancient times to protect the harvest. The Egyptian amulet “Nefer” combined the male cross with a female orb to signify a sacred marriage, an amulet of blessing, a charm of synergetic harmony. In pre-Christian times, it was a pagan religious symbol throughout Europe and western Asia. The shape of the cross came to be used as a "seal" or symbol of Christianity as early as the 2nd century A.D.