8 Unique Ways to Use Cremation Jewellery to Keep a Loved One Close
Saying goodbye to a loved one will never be easy. It doesn’t matter if the death is sudden or expected, the grief will hit you the same. Finding a way to stay connected to the person and remind yourself of their presence is one way to help navigate through the grief.
Memorial jewellery is a discreet and effective way to keep the memory of your loved one close by, without feeling the pressure to share this information with those around you. You can choose understated jewellery pieces that look like any other piece of jewellery. This simple step can help you to process your grief and find strength when you need it the most.
Commissioning a piece of bespoke cremation jewellery is a lot easier than you might think. The important thing is to make sure you choose a reputable jewellery maker with past experience handling cremation ashes. In this guide, we’re looking at 8 different ways you can memorialise a loved one with a piece of jewellery.
What is cremation jewellery?
Cremation jewellery is simply jewellery that contains the ashes or hair of a loved one. It may also be referred to as ashes jewellery or memorial jewellery. It often contains a hidden compartment that is permanently sealed, keeping the ashes or hair safe.
It could also be made from glass or resin gemstones that contain small fragments of the ashes. However, it’s worth noting that resin jewellery isn’t ideal as it will break down over time. Instead, you should look for long-lasting materials like precious metals and glass to help protect your loved one’s remains. A piece of memorial jewellery should last a lifetime.
The most common types of memorial jewellery include rings, pendants, bracelets, cufflinks, bangles, charms and earrings. You can further personalise cremation jewellery by adding an engraving or inscription.
History of cremation jewellery
While it is enjoying a surge in popularity, cremation jewellery is not a new concept. It has been hugely popular throughout history, with many people choosing to wear locks of hair from their loved ones.
Queen Victoria famously wore a lock of Prince Albert’s hair in a necklace following his death. In the Victorian era, it was more common to have a photo taken with the deceased, but death photos were gradually replaced by memorial jewellery.
The very first pieces of cremation jewellery can be traced back to the beginning of man. Everything from skin, hair, nails and even blood has been found in keepsake jewellery. Today, cremation ashes and hair are more commonly added to jewellery.
8 Unique cremation jewellery ideas
If you’re looking for unique ideas for your cremation jewellery, we have a few suggestions. Remember that there are endless possibilities when it comes to cremation jewellery, so you should have no problem finding something that works for you. From traditional to contemporary styles, you should have no trouble finding a piece of jewellery to suit your taste.
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Engagement ring
While you can have ashes turned into a diamond, this is a very expensive way to create an inferior diamond. Instead, we recommend adding ashes to the hidden compartment in a solitaire diamond ring. This is the ideal choice for an engagement ring that is loaded with sentimental value. A ring like this will also become a treasured family heirloom, allowing you to pass it down through your family for generations to come.
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Cufflinks or earrings for your wedding day
If you’re looking for a special way to include a loved one on your wedding day, you could have their ashes added to a special pair of earrings or cufflinks. This is an ideal choice for couples who have recently lost a parent or grandparent. This type of jewellery will quickly become a firm favourite for formal wear.
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Ashes charms
Charms are flexible, versatile and discreet. There are so many different types of charms available that you’ll be spoiled for choice. You could choose a ring charm that is compatible with popular charm bracelet styles like Pandora, or a clip charm that would fit a branded charm bracelet like Thomas Sabo. Charms are also an excellent choice for children to give them something special to hold on to.
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Permanent bracelet
If you never want to be parted from your cremation jewellery, you might think about a permanent bracelet. Instead of a clasp that allows you to remove it, the final link is soldered in place while you are wearing the jewellery. This makes it a permanent piece of jewellery that you will need to cut to remove. If you are worried about losing your jewellery, a permanent bracelet is a perfect choice.
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Glass gemstones
Alongside hidden compartment jewellery, you could also choose glass gemstone jewellery. This will have the ashes suspended in a piece of glass, which can be transparent or opaque. This is a visually stunning piece of jewellery and perfect for those who want to inject a little bit of colour and brightness into their day to day life. Gemstones can be created in a wide range of colours to suit your mood and personality.
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Contemporary pendants
Some cremation jewellery looks incredibly sleek and chic, you would never guess that it contains a hidden compartment. Contemporary pendants are the perfect choice for those looking for a modern look that isn’t entirely obvious to those around them. This will allow you to wear the piece of jewellery every day, making it a part of your usual routine.
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Engraved signet ring
A signet ring is a perfect choice for a man or woman who wants to make a statement with a bold piece of jewellery. An engraved signet ring is an incredibly touching tribute that will bring comfort to those who have lost a loved one. It can be worn as a wedding band, or as a simple everyday ring. And adding personalised engraving will make it even more special for the wearer.
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Pet ashes jewellery
You aren’t limited to human ashes and hair when it comes to memorial jewellery. Your pets can also be memorialised through jewellery. Pet cremation jewellery is incredibly popular as you can use ashes or hair, making it incredibly versatile. If you struggle to say goodbye to a beloved pet, then a piece of jewellery containing their ashes or hair could offer a great deal of comfort as you grieve.
Final thoughts on cremation jewellery
There are lots of ways to memorialise the passing of a loved one, and cremation jewellery is one way that could also help you to manage your grief in a productive way. Reaching for a beloved piece of jewellery when you are facing a difficult moment could help you to process any overwhelming feelings.
It’s important to think carefully about the type of jewellery you would like to commission, including the style and how it is worn. Avoid choosing something that you wouldn’t typically wear, as this could lead to feelings of guilt if you find yourself leaving it at home.
Also bear in mind that a piece of memorial jewellery doesn't have to be with you forever. There may come a time when you prefer to store it safely away and only bring it out for special occasions or when you want to reminisce.