Cremation Jewelry: Keeping a Loved One Close

Cremation jewelry gives families a way to carry a physical reminder of someone they have lost. These wearable keepsakes hold a tiny amount of cremated remains inside a sealed compartment, allowing the wearer to keep their loved one close in a quiet, personal way.

What Is Cremation Jewelry

Cremation jewelry refers to any piece of jewelry designed to hold a small portion of cremated remains. The most common type is a pendant necklace with a tiny hollow chamber that is filled with a pinch of ashes and then sealed with a small screw or adhesive. Some pieces hold other mementos instead, such as a lock of hair, a fragment of dried flowers from the funeral, or a small amount of soil from a meaningful place.

The concept is not new. Memorial jewelry has existed for centuries. During the Victorian era, it was common for mourners to wear lockets containing hair from the deceased. Modern cremation jewelry simply updates that tradition with contemporary materials and designs that are subtle enough for everyday wear.

Types of Cremation Jewelry

There are several styles of cremation jewelry to choose from, each with a different look, price point, and method of incorporating ashes:

• Pendants: The most popular option. These are necklaces with a small hollow compartment that holds ashes. They come in stainless steel, sterling silver, gold, and platinum, and range from simple cylinders to ornate designs shaped like hearts, crosses, angels, or teardrops.
• Rings: Some rings feature a hidden compartment in the band or under the setting. These are more discreet than pendants and are a popular choice for spouses. Designs range from simple bands to more elaborate styles with gemstones.
• Bracelets: Cremation bracelets include bangles and charm bracelets with a sealed compartment in one of the links or charms. They are less common than pendants but offer a comfortable, everyday option for people who do not wear necklaces.
• Glass beads: Artisan glassworkers can incorporate cremated remains directly into handblown glass beads. The ashes become a visible part of the glass, creating a swirl or sparkle effect. These beads can be worn on a chain or added to a bracelet.
• Memorial diamonds: Companies can take a portion of cremated remains and, through extreme heat and pressure, create a genuine diamond. These diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds and can be set in any jewelry setting. This is the most expensive option but produces a lasting, one of a kind keepsake.

How Ashes Are Incorporated

The method depends on the type of jewelry. For pendants, rings, and bracelets with compartments, a small funnel and pick tool are typically included with the piece. You place a tiny amount of ashes into the chamber and then seal it with a threaded screw or a drop of strong adhesive. The amount of ashes required is very small, usually less than a pinch.

For glass beads, the artisan mixes the cremated remains into molten glass during the glassblowing process. You mail a small portion of ashes to the artist, who incorporates them into the design. For memorial diamonds, a larger sample of remains is sent to a laboratory where carbon is extracted and subjected to high pressure, high temperature conditions over several weeks or months to form a diamond crystal.

What Cremation Jewelry Costs

Prices vary widely depending on the material, craftsmanship, and type. Basic stainless steel pendants start at around $25 to $50. Sterling silver pieces typically range from $50 to $150. Gold cremation jewelry runs from $200 to $1,000 or more depending on karat weight and design complexity.

Handblown glass beads generally cost between $50 and $200, depending on the artist and the complexity of the design. Memorial diamonds are the most significant investment, starting at approximately $1,500 for a small stone and exceeding $10,000 for larger, higher quality diamonds.

Many families choose to order multiple pieces at different price points so that several family members can each have a keepsake. A common approach is for one person to invest in a higher end piece while others receive more affordable pendants from the same collection.

How to Choose the Right Piece

Start by thinking about how and when you will wear the piece. If you want something for everyday wear, a simple pendant or ring in a durable material like stainless steel or sterling silver is a practical choice. If the piece is more ceremonial or occasional, you might choose something more ornate or invest in gold or platinum.

Consider the personality of the person you are honoring. A nature lover might be remembered well with a glass bead that resembles an ocean wave. A person who valued elegance might deserve a classic gold pendant. There is no wrong choice here. The piece should feel right to the person wearing it.

Also consider whether you want the jewelry to be recognizable as a memorial piece or entirely discreet. Many cremation pendants look like ordinary jewelry, which some people prefer. Others choose pieces with visible inscriptions or symbols that openly acknowledge their purpose.

Caring for Cremation Jewelry

Cremation jewelry requires the same basic care as any fine jewelry. Keep it away from harsh chemicals, chlorine, and saltwater. Remove it before showering, swimming, or exercising if possible. Store it in a soft pouch or jewelry box when not wearing it to prevent scratches.

Periodically check that the seal on the compartment is secure, especially on threaded screw closures. If the seal feels loose, apply a small drop of clear adhesive to reinforce it. For glass pieces, handle them gently, as glass can chip or crack if dropped on a hard surface. With proper care, cremation jewelry can last a lifetime and even be passed down to future generations.