A Statement of Faith in Lasting Granite
A cross is the clearest statement of faith a family can set in granite. At Haven Casket and Monument, cross monuments are our most requested custom shape. Some families want the whole stone cut into the form of a cross. Others want a cross carved onto the face of a classic upright. We design both. You can see carved granite in person at our Markham showroom.
This page covers the cross styles we shape. It also covers what cemeteries allow and what a cross headstone costs in the GTA.
Cross Monument Styles
There are two ways to put a cross on a monument. The choice shapes the price and the timeline.
- A cross shaped stone. The whole monument is cut in the form of a cross. It stands tall in any cemetery row. These are custom shaped stones, made to order.
- A cross carved on the stone. The monument keeps a classic upright or serpentine shape. The cross is engraved or carved in relief on the face. This is the simpler path. It works on almost any upright headstone.
Within those two paths, families choose from several traditions:
- Latin cross. The simple, classic form. Clean lines. Often paired with carved roses, vines or floral accents.
- Budded cross. Each arm ends in a tip with three lobes. Often carved with a medallion at the centre.
- Celtic cross. A ring around the intersection, with the arms reaching beyond it. Some carry woven knotwork.
Orthodox Cross Monuments
Orthodox families ask for two things most often. The first is the three bar cross. It carries a short bar above the main crossbeam and a slanted bar below it. That form is most associated with Russian, Ukrainian and Serbian Orthodox traditions.
The second is a cross with an engraved icon. Greek Orthodox families often choose a budded cross, where each arm ends in a rounded tip. The icon is engraved on the cross itself or on the tablet below it. Ceramic photo ovals can be set into the stone.
For many families the exact form matters. It is not a detail to compromise on, and we shape it as the tradition requires.
Armenian crosses are a separate tradition. The khachkar, or cross stone, belongs to the Armenian Apostolic Church, not to the Slavic churches that use the three bar cross. It is known for the geometric and plant motifs carved across its face. We shape those too, and we keep the two traditions distinct.
Bring a photo of the cross form used in your community. We can quote a matching piece.
Cemetery Rules for Cross Monuments
A cross shaped stone is an irregular shape. How big you can go depends on your cemetery. Each one sets its own size limits, and they measure monuments in different ways. Height limits apply in some sections.
Every cemetery has its own bylaws. We confirm the rule that applies to your plot before any design work begins. Nothing gets designed that cannot be installed.
Granite Colours for Cross Headstones
Cross monuments are most often shaped in Black, Grey or Indian Red granite. Black gives carved detail the sharpest contrast. Indian Red makes the whole form stand out. In stock colours like Grey and Black are usually faster. Rarer colours can add time, since the granite may need to be ordered. Compare them in our granite colour guide.
Cross Headstone Pricing
Cross shaped monuments start as low as $2,500. That makes them one of our most affordable custom shapes. Price rises with the size of the stone, the granite colour and the carved detail.
A cross carved on the face of a standard upright usually costs less, because the stone itself keeps a standard shape. If your budget is fixed, ask us to quote it both ways.
Our prices are significantly lower than what most cemeteries in the GTA charge for the same quality. We sell direct to families. There is no cemetery markup built into the price. Our monument cost guide explains what is included and what cemeteries charge on top.
Ordering a Cross Monument in the GTA
Start at our Markham showroom, where you can see carved granite in person. Or call us at 905-604-7555. You can also send a photo of a design you have seen elsewhere. We will quote a matching piece.
We confirm your cemetery’s rules first. Then you approve the design before production starts. A custom cross monument takes about 8 to 12 weeks from approval to installation. Every custom monument includes free delivery and installation across the Greater Toronto Area.
Cross monuments are one of our custom monuments. Compare them with other headstone types. See also heart shaped headstones.
Cross Headstone FAQ
Can any headstone have a cross on it?
Yes. A cross can be engraved or carved in relief on almost any upright or flat stone. Only a cross shaped stone is a custom shape. That is where the whole monument is cut into the form of a cross.
What is a three bar Orthodox cross?
It is the cross form used in Russian, Ukrainian and Serbian Orthodox traditions. A short bar sits above the main crossbeam and a slanted bar sits below it. It is not the same as an Armenian khachkar, which belongs to the Armenian Apostolic Church. We shape both.
Do GTA cemeteries allow cross shaped monuments?
Rules vary by cemetery and by section. Some sections have height limits, and cemeteries measure irregular shapes in different ways. We confirm the rule that applies to your plot before any design work begins.
How long does a cross monument take?
A custom cross shaped stone takes about 8 to 12 weeks from design approval to installation. A cross engraved on a standard stone follows the standard production timeline, which is usually faster.
What affects the price of a cross headstone?
Cross shaped monuments start as low as $2,500. A cross engraved on a standard upright usually costs less, because the stone keeps a standard shape. We quote each design. Cemetery fees such as the foundation are separate where they apply.