For over 25 years, John and Faith have been creating custom-cut crosses from rock hewn from the bank of the Jordan River in the area where Jesus was baptized.
Al-Maghtas, officially known as Baptism Site "Bethany Beyond the Jordan," is an archaeological World Heritage site on the east bank of the Jordan River. It is considered to be the original location of the Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist and venerated as such since at least the Byzantine period. Since it's discovery in 1997, three popes have visited the site. You can also find crosses from this same rock in the Vatican Museum.
Each year we get rock from this site, and then cut and polish the pieces to create one-of-a-kind cross pendants. Basic cross pendants, like the one shown here, are $99. (Chains are sold separately.)
If we add a pearl, as shown here, the price is $129. We have a huge variety of small precious and semi-precious stones in stock if you'd like a different stone added. Adding a birthstone is another great option especially when given as a gift. (Chains are sold separately.)
You can see from the uncut stones we start with that no two crosses will look exactly alike due to the uniqueness of natural stone.
Or, choose a custom-framed cross to commemorate and celebrate an event.
You may not know that our own John Robinson not only is a world-class gem cutter but also a fine artist. He created this beautifully-detailed, original portrait of Jesus that we use to commemorate baptisms, confirmations, Holy Week, Passover, Good Friday, Easter, Christmas or other celebration.
These are custom-made and framed in our store and measure approximately 8.5" high, 11" wide and 1" deep and include a glass front. Included are custom framing and a custom-cut and polished cross from the banks of the Jordan River.
Our framed (basic) crosses sell for $150 and we can include a cameo photo of your child or family member in the right corner of the the painting of Jesus (at no additional charge). If you'd like a pearl or other stone added to the cross then there's an additional fee.
We think there's no better way to commemorate a baptism than with a Bethany Beyond the Jordan Cross. Whether you wear it as a pendant or choose the framed version for your home, we know this will be cherished for years to come.
We can ship these worldwide. Postage or shipping is an additional fee and based upon the delivery address. Call our store for more information.
Learn more about Bethany Beyond the Jordan at BaptismSite.com
Watch a video about the site on YouTube by clicking HERE.