Sideways Cross Ring

Cross Styles

Gold crosses come in many meaningful designs. Latin crosses are the traditional Christian symbol. Greek crosses have equal-length arms. Celtic crosses feature a circle around the intersection. Crucifixes include the figure of Christ. Modern crosses offer contemporary interpretations. Each style carries its own significance.

• Latin Cross: Traditional, longer bottom arm
• Greek Cross: Equal length arms
• Celtic Cross: Circle around intersection
• Crucifix: Includes figure of Christ
• Modern: Contemporary artistic designs

Choosing Cross Size

Cross size depends on personal preference and how you want to wear it. Small crosses (under 1 inch) are subtle and understated. Medium crosses (1-1.5 inches) are classic everyday size. Large crosses (over 1.5 inches) make a statement. Consider chain length and your frame when choosing.

• Small (under 1 inch): Subtle, delicate
• Medium (1-1.5 inches): Classic, versatile
• Large (1.5+ inches): Bold statement
• Match size to your frame
• Consider chain length and weight

Gold Purity for Crosses

14K gold is the most popular choice for crosses, offering good durability and value. 18K has a richer color for special pieces. 10K is most affordable and durable. For detailed or intricate designs, higher karat gold shows finer detail. Match the karat to your chain.

• 14K: Best balance, most popular
• 18K: Richer color, special occasions
• 10K: Most durable and affordable
• Higher karat for detailed designs
• Match karat to chain

Diamond Crosses

Diamond accents add sparkle and significance to gold crosses. Diamonds can outline the cross, fill the center, or accent key points. Pave settings create continuous sparkle. Larger diamonds at intersections create focal points. Diamond crosses make meaningful gifts for religious milestones.

• Outline designs trace the cross shape
• Pave creates all-over sparkle
• Center diamonds add focal point
• Great for baptisms, confirmations
• Mix with plain gold for contrast

Caring for Your Cross

Gold crosses are often worn daily and need regular care. Clean gently with mild soap and soft brush, especially in detailed areas. Dry completely before wearing. Store flat or hanging to prevent chain tangles. Remove before showering to prevent soap buildup. Check bail attachment regularly.

• Clean detailed areas with soft brush
• Dry thoroughly after cleaning
• Store properly to prevent tangles
• Remove before showering
• Check bail security periodically

Engagement rings: Traditionally feature a center stone. Diamond is classic; colored gems are trending.

Wedding bands: Worn daily for life. Prioritize comfort and durability.

Fashion rings: Style pieces for any finger. More freedom in design choices.

Stackable rings: Thin bands designed to be worn in multiples.

Signet rings: Flat top surface, often engraved. Classic, masculine style.

Eternity bands: Gemstones circle the entire band. Dramatic sparkle.

Ring size changes throughout the day and with temperature:

When to measure: End of day when fingers are largest. Avoid cold conditions.

Width matters: Wide bands fit tighter than thin ones. Size up half a size for wide bands.

Knuckle considerations: If your knuckle is larger than your finger base, size for the knuckle and consider sizing beads.

Between sizes: Go up, not down. Slightly loose is better than painfully tight.

Professional sizing: Jewelers can size you accurately. It's worth the trip.

10K gold: Most durable, least expensive. Good for rings that take abuse.

14K gold: The American standard. Balances durability with gold content.

18K gold: Richer color, softer. International luxury standard. Best for special pieces.

For daily wear rings like wedding bands, 14K offers the best combination of appearance and durability. 18K is fine if you're willing to accept that it'll show wear faster.

Comfort fit: Rounded interior slides on easily and feels less tight. Best for daily wear bands.

Standard fit: Flat interior. Traditional, costs less.

Flat bands: Modern, geometric look. Can feel less comfortable than curved profiles.

Domed/Court: Curved exterior, comfortable interior. Classic shape.

Knife edge: Pointed profile creates dramatic shadow lines. Stylish but can feel sharp.

For rings you'll wear constantly, comfort fit is worth the small premium.

High polish: Mirror-like shine. Classic, shows scratches more readily.

Matte/Brushed: Soft, non-reflective finish. Hides wear better.

Hammered: Textured surface with small indentations. Artisanal look, very forgiving of scratches.

Satin: Between polish and matte. Subtle sheen.

Combination: Mix of finishes for visual interest.

Consider your lifestyle. High polish looks great new but shows every scratch. Matte and textured finishes are more forgiving for active hands.

Resizing potential: Most gold rings can be sized up or down. Very wide bands or full eternity bands are harder to resize.

Daily wear: Your ring will get scratched. This is normal. Gold can be polished.

Active lifestyle: Consider removing rings for gym, sports, manual work. Or choose a more durable design.

Professional maintenance: Annual inspection and cleaning keeps rings in top shape.

Insurance: For valuable rings, get them appraised and insured. It's worth the peace of mind.