The Cross Family Crest mug. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.
Eminently suited for a proper brew! Whether it’s a gift to mark a milestone birthday, a new home, or Christmas morning — here’s an artwork with history in your hands.
The origin of the name Cross
Cross is an ancient English topographic and occupational surname derived from the Old English cros (from Old Norse kross and Latin crux), referring to a family residing near a prominent roadside cross, boundary cross, or market cross. In medieval Britain, stone crosses served as vital landmarks, sanctuary markers, and places of prayer. Codified following the 1066 Norman Conquest, the surname established early seats across Lancashire, Cheshire, and Norfolk, appearing in the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Lincolnshire (Philip ad Crucem).
The symbolism of the Cross coat of arms
Visually balanced and spiritual, the Cross coat of arms features a quarterly shield divided into red and radiant gold quarters, with the 1st and 4th red quarters each charged with a golden cross crosslet. In classical heraldry, the gold quarters symbolise generosity and elevation of mind, while the red quarters denote martial valour and fortitude. The golden cross crosslets represent unyielding Christian faith, noble purpose, and devotion. Positioned above the shield, the crest features a standing silver crane holding a small gold cross in its beak. Below, the motto scroll displays Cruce dum spero fido, translating to "While I hope in the cross I trust." Catalogued in Burke's General Armory (1884) for Cross of Lancashire and Cheshire.
Historical figures
Sir Robert Cross (c. 1545–1611): English naval commander knighted for his distinguished service under Queen Elizabeth I during the Cadiz expedition.
Richard Cross, 1st Viscount Cross (1823–1914): Prominent British statesman and Home Secretary under Prime Minister Lord Salisbury.
Charles Frederick Cross (1855–1935): Celebrated English chemist who co-invented viscose rayon.
Product details
- High quality white ceramic mug with the family crest printed two sides
- Dishwasher and microwave safe
- 15 oz mug dimensions: 4.7″ (11.9 cm) in height, 3.3″ (8.5 cm) in diameter
No Warehouses. No Waste. Just for you, made to order
This product is printed especially for you when ordered, one at a time, by royal decree of Mother Nature to keep the realm beautiful. Family Crests Store guarantees your custom treasure meets all EU and USA safety standards.
About the artist
Each coat of arms in the Family Crests Store is an artwork by heraldic artist Éamonn Breathnach. All are carefully researched, drawing from the earliest available records across multiple heraldic archives. Noted for their elegance and attention to detail, these artworks make meaningful gifts for family occasions.
Don’t see your family name?
I’m always happy to add new crests and products to the collection, so please get in touch if you can’t find what you're looking for. ⚜️
