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The familiar peace symbol of the 1960s originated in 1956 as a logo designed by professional artist Gerald Holtom for the British Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. It is formed from the letters N and D in semaphore.

Because Holtom believed peace was an impossible dream, he wanted the sign to look like a despairing figure with arms lowered. Later in life he changed his mind, and asked that people wear their peace symbols upside down. Peace buttons and some peace necklaces were made with this “celebrate peace” design.

There is no evidence that the peace symbol has anything to do with anti-Christian or anti-God sentiment, as is claimed by fringe groups and the religious right. Holtom wrote a clear explanation of how he came up with the design. In fact, he originally wanted the symbol to be a Christian cross in a circle, but the clergy he consulted did not feel it was proper. However, Christian members of the CND placed a cross on top of the circle.

The first peace necklaces and pins were white ceramic disks with the sign painted on in black. Peace buttons were brought to the U.S. in 1960, where the Student Peace Union began selling them nationwide. By 1965, the symbol was no longer affiliated with any one organization but meant anti-war sentiment in general. Both men and women wore peace necklaces and arm bands, painted the symbol on walls, used it on flags and posters. Soldiers in Vietnam and elsewhere painted it on their helmets.

Holtom never copyrighted the symbol, asking that it be used and seen everywhere. Much later, John Lennon echoed this view when he spoke about the idea of peace as being planted like a seed in people’s minds. In a 1969 interview he suggested that people “put the word ‘peace’ in the window”, for others to see and do the same.

By 1970, peace-symbol clothing, decorations, and especially peace necklaces were manufactured and sold by the millions. There was no store or magazine that did not have them. They were particularly marketed to older children and young adults.

Today, the symbol is part of world consciousness; everyone knows what it means. It’s even part of the character map of computer keyboards. Peace necklaces are not only commonplace, they are high fashion. They are made in 24k gold and in vermeil and in sterling silver, sometimes covered with tiny diamonds.

If you want to make your own peace necklace, you can buy pendants and beads at any jewelry supply store. For an authentic 1960s look, get a plain brass or stainless steel pendant, or gold- or silver-plated. Most were round, but oval-shaped ones were also seen. Wear it on an ordinary chain, or a piece of suede lace or cord. Plain wood beads can be added. The military-style dog tag with a peace symbol on it appeared in about 1968 and can be worn the same way.

For a peace necklace with love beads, use strong nylon thread and size 10/0 seed beads. By 1969, chokers were the “in” thing. Use beads with elastic thread and a small peace charm, or braid suede lace together. Peace slide charms can be put on a wider suede band and tied around your neck.

There are other symbols of peace besides Holtom’s. You can use doves, olive branches, the “V” hand signal and the Hebrew word “Shalom”. Don’t just wear peace as a fashion statement. Think about what it means, live it and pass it on.