Cremation Jewelry Explained: How It Works, What It Holds, and How to Choose
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For many people, grief does not stay at home. Cremation jewelry gives you a way to carry someone with you, close to your heart, wherever you go. If you are new to the idea, it can raise a lot of questions about how it works, how much ash is needed, and which style to choose.
This guide walks through the main types of cremation jewelry, what each one holds, and how to find the right piece.
What Is Cremation Jewelry?
Cremation jewelry is a pendant, ring, or other piece that holds, or incorporates, a very small amount of cremated ashes. Some pieces have a tiny chamber that opens and closes. Others blend the ashes into a durable resin. There is also memorial jewelry that is engraved with a photo or fingerprint and does not hold ashes at all.
The Main Types of Cremation Jewelry
Ash-Infused Jewelry
With ash-infused jewelry, a very small amount of cremated ashes is blended with a durable, gemstone-like resin that hardens into the center of the piece. The result is a colored stone that carries a trace of your loved one. Our ash-infused collection includes pendants such as the Cross and Heart, plus women's and men's rings. Many pieces are made in .925 sterling silver, and other resin colors are available on request. Pricing on 14K white or yellow gold is available by call or email.
Cremation Pendants With a Chamber
These pieces have a small hollow space inside. You place a pinch of ashes in the chamber and close it with a screw or threaded bail. Most hold about 1/8 teaspoon. Styles include the Butterfly, Happy Heart, Memory Cross, and Cylinder pendants, in sterling silver or stainless steel. For pets, see our pet jewelry collection, which includes a paw heart cremation pendant.
Photo and Fingerprint Jewelry
Photo and fingerprint pieces are engraved with an image or a fingerprint. Some, like our Cremation Heart Photo Pendant, open to hold a pinch of ashes. Many others, including the Heart Photo Pendant and Heart Fingerprint Pendant, are engraved memorials that do not hold ashes. Always check the product description so you know which you are choosing. Browse our photo jewelry and fingerprint jewelry collections.
How Much Ash Does Cremation Jewelry Hold?
Cremation jewelry holds a very small amount, about a pinch or roughly 1/8 teaspoon for most chamber pendants. Ash-infused pieces use even less, since the ashes are blended into resin.
| Type | How the Ashes Are Used | Amount | Materials |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ash-infused | Blended into resin that hardens | A very small amount | Sterling silver (14K gold on request) |
| Chamber pendant | Placed inside the pendant | About 1/8 teaspoon | Sterling silver or stainless steel |
| Cremation photo pendant | Placed inside through the bail | A pinch | Stainless steel |
| Photo or fingerprint engraved | Not used (engraved memorial) | None | Stainless steel or sterling silver |
Because these amounts are so small, jewelry is a good way to share a portion of ashes among family members. See our guide to keepsake and sharing urns for more ideas.
How to Choose the Right Piece
- Decide how you want to remember. Do you want ashes included, or an engraved photo or fingerprint?
- Pick a style that fits the person who will wear it. Hearts, crosses, butterflies, bars, and rings are all popular, and there are designs for both women and men.
- Think about the metal. Sterling silver has a classic look, while stainless steel is a durable everyday choice.
- Check the ring size. Our women's ash-infused rings come in whole and half sizes 5 to 8, and the men's ring comes in whole and half sizes 8 to 10.
- Choose a color. Ash-infused pieces come in a range of resin colors, and other colors are available on request.
- Add a personal touch. Many pieces can be engraved on the back with a name, date, or short message.
Most pendants include a 20-inch chain.
Filling a Chamber Pendant
Take your time, and do it somewhere quiet where you will not be rushed. A small funnel and a steady hand make it easier. Once the ashes are in, close the screw or bail all the way so it is fully secure. If you would like advice before you begin, contact us and we will be glad to walk you through it.
Caring for Cremation Jewelry
- Take it off before swimming, showering, or exercising.
- Keep it away from harsh cleaners and chemicals.
- Wipe it gently with a soft cloth, and store it somewhere dry.
- Sterling silver can tarnish over time, and a polishing cloth will bring back its shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to wear a loved one's ashes?
Yes. Many people find comfort in keeping a loved one close this way. It is a personal choice, and there is no right or wrong answer.
How much ash do I need?
Very little. Most chamber pendants hold about 1/8 teaspoon, and ash-infused pieces use a smaller amount than that.
Can I wear cremation jewelry every day?
Many people do. Choose a durable metal, avoid water and chemicals, and take care when exercising or working with your hands.
Is cremation jewelry available for pets?
Yes. Our pet jewelry collection includes a paw heart cremation pendant and other pieces made to remember a companion.
Does the jewelry come with a chain?
Our pendants include a 20-inch chain.
We're Here to Help
At The Stinson Urn Co., we help Maryland families find a memorial that feels right, whether that is an urn, a keepsake, or a piece of jewelry to keep close. We serve Calvert, Charles, St. Mary's, Montgomery, Anne Arundel, and Prince George's counties. Browse our jewelry or reach out with any questions, and we will be happy to help.