A gold cross is one of the most meaningful gifts a child can receive. Given at a baptism, a baby dedication or a First Communion, it becomes a keepsake they wear for years and often pass down to their own children. Since 1997, our family has helped parents, grandparents and godparents choose that first cross. Here is what we have learned.
Why a Cross Is the Classic Gift
At a baptism, godparents traditionally give a small gold cross that the child will wear when they are older. In churches that dedicate babies instead of baptizing them, a cross is an equally meaningful dedication gift. It is a gift for the future, kept safe until the child is ready to wear it, often at their First Communion. At First Communion, the cross necklace marks a new step in the child's faith, and many children wear it every day from then on. Browse our full collection of 18K gold cross necklaces, from delicate crosses for children to classic pendants for adults.
Cross or Crucifix?
A crucifix includes the figure of Christ, while a cross is plain. The choice usually follows your family's church tradition:
- Catholic and Orthodox families traditionally choose a crucifix, especially for First Communion, though a simple cross is also very popular for everyday wear.
- Lutheran and Episcopal families may choose either.
- Most other Protestant and evangelical families, including Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian and non-denominational churches, choose a plain cross, a reminder that Christ is risen.
If you are giving a gift to another family and are not sure, a simple cross is right for every Christian tradition.
Choose the Right Size
A baptism or dedication cross is a gift for the future, so the real question is: when do you want them to wear it?
- A cross for their First Communion: 10 to 16 mm. Choose a size that will look right on a 7-year-old, like our best-selling Tiny Classic Polished Cross (0.40 x 0.28 in) or the Tiny Polished Modern Cross (0.53 x 0.34 in).
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A cross for a lifetime. Many families choose a cross the child can wear as a teenager and an adult:
- For a boy, about 1 inch, like the Polished Half Tube Cross (0.90 in) or the Polished Oval Tube Cross (1.07 in).
- For a girl, a little smaller, about 0.6 to 0.75 inch, like the Small Polished Round Tube Cross (0.64 in) or the Tiny Polished Crucifix (0.74 in). It is delicate enough for a woman to wear every day.
Compare every size and price in our 18K gold crosses and crucifixes, sorted from lowest to highest price.
Larger Crosses for Teens and Adults
For confirmation, a graduation, or a cross to wear for life, many families choose a bolder piece:
- Polished Hollow Cross (1.0 x 0.64 in): a classic, everyday cross for men and women.
- Cubic Zirconia Large Cross (1.23 x 0.65 in with the bail): a sparkling statement of faith.
- Polished Round Tube Cross (1.45 in with the bail): a bold, polished cross that stands out on a man's chain.
- Four Way Italian Cross: a traditional Catholic cross that combines four sacred medals, crafted in Italy.
Browse every size in our collection of 18K gold crosses and crucifixes.
Keep Babies and Young Children Safe
We do not recommend a cross or crucifix necklace for children under 7. Until the child is ready, keep the cross in its Amalia gift box, or attach it to an 18K gold baby safety pin and pin it somewhere safe, out of the child's reach. The tiniest crosses, like our Tiny Flat Polished Cross (8.4 x 4.8 mm, from $92) and the Tiny Pearls Filigree Cross (11 mm with 2 mm pearls), are the right size for a pin.
Choose a Style They Will Love
- Polished flat crosses: simple, light and timeless.
- Tube crosses: rounded edges that feel smooth against the skin.
- Filigree and pearl crosses: delicate details for girls.
- Crucifixes: the traditional choice for a Catholic First Communion.
Choose the Right Chain
Once a child is 7 or older, a short, fine chain of about 13 to 14 inches fits properly and is less likely to catch. See our 18K gold chains for kids. Remove necklaces for sleep and sports. As they grow, the same cross can move to a longer chain.
Make It Personal
Our crosses are not engraved, but many families pair the cross with a piece that is: a religious medal or an ID bracelet engraved with the child's name and the date of the baptism, dedication or First Communion. Together they make a complete gift that tells the story of the day.
Why 18K Solid Gold Matters
Children's skin is sensitive. 18K gold is 75% pure gold, hypoallergenic and free of lead and nickel, so it is gentle enough to wear every day. It also does not tarnish or fade, which is why a solid gold cross pendant becomes an heirloom instead of a piece that wears out. Most of our crosses are handcrafted in Italy, and every one arrives in an Amalia gift box and bag, ready to give. Learn more in Is Your Child's Jewelry Really Safe?
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can a child wear a cross necklace?
We recommend waiting until about age 7, around First Communion. A cross given at baptism or dedication is usually kept safe until then.
Should I choose a cross or a crucifix?
Catholic and Orthodox families often choose a crucifix, while most Protestant and evangelical families prefer a plain cross. If you are not sure, a plain cross suits every Christian tradition.
What size cross should I give for a baptism?
It depends on when you want them to wear it. Choose 10 to 16 mm for a cross they will start wearing at First Communion. For a cross they will wear as an adult, about 1 inch for a boy and 0.6 to 0.75 inch for a girl.
Who traditionally gives the cross at a baptism?
Usually the godparents, though grandparents and parents often give one too. In churches that dedicate babies instead, family members often give a cross as a dedication gift.
How much does a real gold cross cost?
Our 18K solid gold crosses start at about $92 for the tiniest styles. Most First Communion crosses are between $130 and $200, adult-size crosses are between $220 and $400, and traditional statement pieces like the Four Way Italian Cross are more.
Can my child wear the cross every day?
Yes, from about age 7. 18K gold is hypoallergenic and durable. Just remove necklaces for sleep and sports.
Shop our First Communion jewelry and baptism gifts, all in hypoallergenic 18K solid gold.
