Cremation jewelry offers a deeply personal way to remember loved ones, both human and animal, allowing for the preservation of ashes or other sentimental items within a wearable piece. A growing trend within this market involves the incorporation of birthstones into these memorial pieces, adding a further layer of personalization and meaning. This practice allows individuals to connect the memory of the deceased with the symbolism and beauty associated with their birth month, or simply a favorite gemstone. This article will explore the options for birthstone integration within cremation jewelry, the methods used to create these pieces, and considerations for their care and customization.
The Rise of Personalized Remembrance
Traditionally, urn necklaces involved simply containing ashes within a hollow pendant. However, contemporary cremation jewelry often moves beyond this, with ashes being infused within the material of the jewelry itself – into gemstones, glass, or resin. This approach is considered a more elegant and secure method of preserving a portion of the deceased. The ability to personalize these pieces has become increasingly important, reflecting a desire for unique and meaningful tributes. The practice of creating jewelry from ashes is not limited to human remains; it is also a popular way to memorialize beloved pets, with options for including fur or dried flower petals alongside or instead of ashes.
Customization Options: Birthstones and Beyond
Several avenues exist for incorporating birthstones into cremation jewelry. One common method involves dyeing a stone the color associated with the deceased’s birthstone. Alternatively, jewelers can create a piece using the actual birthstone of the individual being remembered, infusing the ashes directly into the gemstone. Beyond birthstones, personalization can extend to using the deceased’s favorite color or favorite stone, offering a truly bespoke memorial.
Engraving is another popular customization option. Jewelry can be engraved with names, dates, or short messages, and some pieces even allow for photo engraving, directly transferring an image onto the jewelry surface. For those interested in a particularly unique tribute, fingerprint cremation jewelry allows for the laser engraving of the deceased’s fingerprint onto the piece.
Materials and Styles Available
Cremation jewelry is available in a wide range of materials and styles to suit different tastes and budgets. Options range from basic stainless steel pendants to more elaborate pieces featuring precious gemstones. Common forms include:
- Cremation Keepsakes: These pendants are designed to hold a small amount of ashes within a cavity. They come in various materials and designs.
- Cremation Rings: Ashes can be infused into the gemstone of a ring or enclosed within the ring setting itself.
- Cremation Pendants: Available in countless shapes, materials, and styles, pendants can be crafted from metals like stainless steel or gold, or incorporate gemstones and ash-infused glass.
- Cremation Bracelets: These offer an alternative to necklaces and rings, allowing for customization with different materials and designs.
The price of cremation jewelry varies significantly, typically ranging from $60 to $1000, with higher costs associated with the use of expensive gemstones. The final price depends on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and the amount of labor involved.
The Process of Creating Ash-Infused Jewelry
Creating jewelry infused with ashes requires a delicate process. Typically, less than a teaspoon of ashes is needed. The jeweler uses a small funnel to carefully pour the ashes into a cavity within the jewelry piece. For pieces where ashes are infused into a gemstone, a specialized process is used to bind the ashes with the material of the stone.
To ensure a secure and lasting memorial, some jewelers recommend adding a small amount of adhesive to the screw or closure mechanism, preventing any accidental leakage. The jeweler will then securely close the jewelry piece, ensuring a flush and tight seal.
Care and Maintenance
While cremation jewelry can be worn like any other piece of jewelry, certain precautions should be taken to protect the ashes and maintain the quality of the piece. It is recommended to limit exposure to chlorine (found in swimming pools) and excessive sunlight, as these can potentially damage the materials. A care card with detailed instructions is often provided with the purchase of cremation jewelry.
It is generally not advisable to fully submerge the jewelry in water, as the minerals and chemicals present can cause damage. Removing the jewelry before showering, bathing, or swimming is a prudent measure.
Filling and Securing the Jewelry
The process of filling cremation jewelry involves carefully opening the bail or screw cap, inserting a small funnel, and gently pouring a tiny amount of ashes into the cavity. It is crucial not to overfill the space. Once filled, the screw is replaced tightly, ensuring a secure closure. Adding a small drop of adhesive to the screw threads can further enhance the seal, preventing any potential loss of ashes. Any excess adhesive should be carefully cleaned away.
Quantity of Ashes Required
Generally, cremation jewelry can accommodate between 1/8 and 1/2 teaspoon of ashes, although the exact capacity will vary depending on the size and design of the piece. It is advisable to check the product description or consult with the jeweler to determine the appropriate amount of ashes to use.
A Sympathetic Gift and Family Keepsakes
Cremation jewelry serves not only as a personal memorial but also as a thoughtful sympathy gift for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Keepsakes can be a helpful tool in the grieving process, offering a tangible connection to the deceased. The ability to divide ashes among family members makes cremation jewelry an ideal option for larger families, allowing each individual to hold a piece of their loved one close.