The early circled cross stone monument as it survives in Ireland today exists in two forms the incised slab and the free standing cross. The slab form has a cross carved in relief while the free standing cross takes the form of a monument that has the stone cut away so that the shape of the ringed cross is carved in the round. The degree of decoration varies from example to example. In many cases, the most ornately-decorated have carvings on all the surfaces, even the edges of the ring and ends of the arms. These carvings fall into several categories, with several or all of these present on any example.
Human figures representing Biblical stories or the crucifixion are common.
Many of these same characteristics can be seen in metalwork and in Gospel illumination. A special kind of Irish cross is St. Brigid's Cross. St. Brigid was said to have been born in the mid-5th century. Brigid is remembered for her great charity and kindness. She is a co-patron of Ireland along with St. Patrick.