Growing up in a Greek Orthodox family, I’ve always found cross jewellery to feel sacred and familiar. In Greek Orthodox tradition, when a child is baptised, godparents gift their godchild a cross (in Greek called a Σταύρος [stavros]), which forms an essential part of the ceremony when the priest places the cross around the child’s neck as a sign of protection. To me, the cross is more than just a religious symbol; it’s a way for people to feel connected to their family and culture. It’s a talisman of faith, protection, community and heritage, and when a client approaches me for a bespoke cross, I’m deeply aware of this significance.

My crosses have a contemporary aesthetic, but they draw from tradition. I find inspiration in my heirloom crosses: my own golden christening cross, which was gifted to me by my godmother and godfather at my christening, and a cross owned by my Papou that was given to me by my Yiayia at a time when I needed strength (below right). Another very special cross is one that my other Yiayia had custom-made when she was in Cyprus in 1974 (below left). This cross uses a traditional Cypriot filigree technique, which involves twisted threads of gold and tiny granules arranged delicately to create intricate motifs. I look to this piece a lot, not only because of its craftsmanship but also because of its connection to my heritage and my beautiful Yiayia.

These crosses are so important to me, and although I don’t wear them daily, I treasure them.

I have drawn from the aesthetics of traditional crosses such as these to offer classic and contemporary forms in different sizes. My daughters’ christening crosses—which I was commissioned to make by their Godparents—are solid, brushed 18ct yellow gold, with a single Argyle cognac diamond placed in each of their crosses to connect them. Some other special crosses I have made over the years have now become available to custom order, including the Evangeline cross and the Christian cross, both pictured below.

What I love about creating bespoke crosses is their versatility. Every cross is handcrafted. I carve the cross form out of jeweller’s wax by hand before casting it in solid gold. I then shape the gold, adding texture and a soft, brushed, matte finish. This finish is a signature of my work, as I love how it accentuates yellow gold’s richness. Sometimes, I might add a small gemstone to personalise or accent the cross. Usually, it’s a single stone, a tiny glittering gem that contrasts against the brilliant gold. In the past, I have used white and cognac diamonds, sapphires, and, most recently, citrine, which is the birthstone of the sweet little girl the custom cross necklace made for (pictured below).

In a world of mass-produced jewellery, a bespoke, handcrafted cross is much more personal to the wearer. I feel privileged to combine my work as a jewellery artist with my cultural heritage.

I remember every cross I make, for each is one of a kind, and I love knowing that it will become a talisman—a sacred family heirloom cherished for generations to come.

For more information about what cross necklaces are on offer, head to the cross collection page in my online store. If you would like your own custom cross made, contact me via email at info@marinaantoniou.com. Each and every cross is handmade to order in Sydney, Australia. Please allow 3 weeks to produce.