Necklace vs Ring: Choosing the Right Keepsake
Is an ashes necklace or ashes ring the better choice?
There isn’t a universally “better” option — the right choice depends on how you want to wear and experience the keepsake. An ashes necklace often offers more versatility and visibility, while an ashes ring tends to feel more discreet, tactile, and naturally part of daily life.
- →Necklaces suit flexibility they can be layered, worn visibly or privately, and usually allow larger or more detailed memorial designs.
- →Rings suit constant wear many people find comfort in a keepsake they can feel and touch throughout the day.
- →Think about your routine comfort at work, existing jewellery habits, and how visible you want the memorial to be can all shape the right decision.
Designing your own memorial keepsake is a deeply cathartic experience. It can form an important part of the grieving process by allowing you to focus your attention onto something that will support you as you move forward.
A memorial keepsake is a piece of jewellery that contains a symbolic portion of a loved one’s ashes. It’s not a large urn that you carry around with you, but rather a small piece of comfort that can help you to feel strong in moments of deep pain.
Jewellery is a popular choice as you can wear it discreetly, and no one needs to know that you are wearing a small memorial. It’s also tactile, which means you can reach for it in moments of need. It can also form part of an outfit for a special occasion, particularly if you choose a statement piece.
In short, memorial jewellery can help you to feel connected with someone you have lost, allowing you to move forward with your grief and build the next stage of your life. Choosing the right piece of jewellery for you can be difficult. Many people will land on two pieces: either a ring or a necklace. In this guide, we’re exploring the key differences between the two, so you can decide which one is right for you.
What is a memorial keepsake necklace?
Memorial keepsake necklaces are hugely popular for those grieving the loss of a loved one. Necklaces are versatile in their design, so you can choose from a wide range of designs. This could include pendants, dog tags, simple chains, glass gemstones, diamonds and precious gemstones. The beauty of a necklace is that it can be worn visible over clothes or tucked away. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for something discreet.
Benefits of a memorial keepsake necklace
- Versatile choice with plenty of customisation choices
- Can be simple and sleek or elaborate with precious gemstones or diamonds
- Different chain lengths can be adapted to different styles
- The necklace provides tactile comfort in a discreet way
Downsides of a memorial keepsake necklace
- There is a risk of losing the necklace, which could be emotionally distressing
- Those with limited mobility might struggle with the clasp
- This choice might not be suited to a child as they might lose or break it
What is a memorial keepsake ring?
Another option for commemorating the loss of a loved one is a memorial keepsake ring. This is a piece of jewellery with a hidden compartment holding a symbolic portion of ashes of a loved one. The ring might be simple and understated, or it could include an elaborate setting with a glass gemstone, precious gemstone or a diamond.
Rings are a popular choice as they are discreet and look like any other piece of jewellery. They’re also tactile and can bring comfort in moments of difficulty. They can also be saved as occasion wear, allowing the individual to decide when they need a little extra comfort.
Benefits of a memorial keepsake ring
- Small and discreet memorial that looks like any other piece of jewellery
- Can be paired with a bumper ring to help prevent loss
- Diverse range of styles available for every taste and preference
- Can be enhanced with glass gemstones, precious stones or diamonds
- Suitable for wedding or engagement rings
Downsides of a memorial keepsake ring
- Not always suitable for those who work manual labour with their hands
- Could be a visible target for thieves, particularly if it contains a diamond setting
Curious about diamonds from ashes vs glass? Diamonds made from ashes can be expensive and often appear yellow with inclusions. Many families prefer memorial glass or hidden-chamber ashes jewellery.
Learn more: Memorial Glass vs Diamonds or read Things You Need To Know About Cremation Jewellery.
Which option fits your situation?
Ashes Necklace
- ✓You prefer a keepsake that can sit close to the heart
- ✓You want flexibility between visible and private wear
- ✓You enjoy layering jewellery or changing chain styles and lengths
- ✓You are drawn to larger gemstones, kiln-fired glass, or statement designs
- ✓You may want to remove or change the keepsake more easily depending on the occasion
Ashes Ring
- ✓You want a keepsake that feels naturally part of everyday life
- ✓You find comfort in something tactile you can touch throughout the day
- ✓You already wear rings regularly and want the memorial to feel familiar
- ✓You prefer jewellery that appears discreet or private to others
- ✓You like the symbolism of wearing memorial jewellery in place of a traditional ring
How to choose the right one for you
When choosing between a ring or a necklace, think about what pieces of jewellery you wear most often. If you already wear a necklace regularly, it might be better to choose a ring. It’s easy to wear multiple rings, but layering necklaces can be more difficult.
You should also think about your line of work and whether it would be practical to wear a ring or a necklace every day. If you work with your hands, you might risk damaging a ring. If you work in a dangerous environment, you might be unable to safely wear a necklace at work.
You should also consider if you plan to wear the piece every day, or if you’ll save it for special occasions. For everyday wear, a simple ring or necklace could be a huge source of emotional support. For special occasions, you might want a more elaborate and statement piece of jewellery to wear.
If you are struggling to decide between the two, it might be better to opt for both, choosing a simple design for one piece of jewellery and a statement piece for the other. This will ensure you can enjoy the best of both.
