Finding the perfect way to memorialise a loved one can be incredibly difficult. Ashes jewellery is growing in popularity as a way to keep the memory of a loved one close, while also helping to support those going through the grieving process.
Scattering the ashes can be cathartic and an important step in saying goodbye, but for many people, this prospect can be simply too much. By retaining a small amount of ashes in a keepsake piece of jewellery, you can say goodbye while still retaining something to make you feel closer to your loved one.
Making precious keepsakes
The process for making timeless memorial keepsakes is one that is steeped in respect and honour. Jewellers typically specialise in this type of jewellery, so they can guide customers through the process and ensure they feel comfortable every step of the way.
It starts with selecting the piece of jewellery. There are lots of different ways to include ashes within a piece of jewellery. The most popular is hidden compartment jewellery, which is the safest method.
This method encases the ashes within a hidden compartment inside a piece of jewellery such as a pendant necklace or a ring. The precious metal jewellery is permanently sealed, so you can confidently wear the piece without worrying about the ashes falling out.
Timeless classics
The key to choosing an appropriate memorial jewellery is to make sure it is a timeless style. This is not the time to choose a trending piece, as this could make you feel uncomfortable and outdated in a few year’s time.
Instead, focus on unique and understated pieces that are suitable for everyday wear. These are less likely to attract attention and comments, which can be helpful as you might not wish to disclose the origins or your jewellery to everyone who comments on it.
Gold is a popular choice for this reason, particularly if you have skin with warm or olive undertones. Gold is a precious metal that will not break down or be damaged by everyday wear. Minimal maintenance will help to keep your gold memorial jewellery looking beautiful.
Styles to explore
A simple pendant necklace on a thin gold chain is a beautiful choice for a memorial necklace. There are lots of pendants to choose from, including minimalist square bars or an understated cross.
You could also choose to have your memorial ashes added to a glass pendant. This process involves heating the glass and then rolling in the ashes, allowing them to be suspended in the material. The glass is then shaped, hardened and set in a pendant. You can choose clear or opaque glass in a range of colours to suit your style.
For pet memorials, it’s common to choose something like a paw imprint pendant, or a simple orb or heart. You might wear these every day to keep the memory of your pet close, or you could save them at home as a precious keepsake.
Diamond memorials
While it is possible to have ashes turned into a diamond, this is a costly process that results in less satisfactory results. These diamonds are typically very yellow and high in inclusions, due to the nature of the manufacturing process.
Instead, you might choose to add a diamond (natural or lab grown) to a hidden compartment piece of jewellery. This will enable you to enjoy the beauty of diamonds, while still keeping your loved one’s ashes safe and secure.
When choosing a piece of memorial jewellery for a loved one, think about when you might wear this and if you’re looking for something for everyday wear or occasional wear. This will help to guide your decisions and ensure you are happy with the finished result.