Memorial Guides

When I first started creating ashes jewellery, one of the most common questions people asked me was simply: "What exactly are cremation ashes?" It's a perfectly natural question, and understanding the answer helps explain why these precious remains can be transformed into such beautiful, lasting memorial pieces. I've found that when people understand what cremation ashes actually are, they feel more comfortable and confident about choosing ashes jewellery as a way to keep their loved ones close. Let me share what I've learned over the years about these precious remains and why they're so perfectly suited for creating meaningful keepsakes. What Are Cremation Ashes Really? Despite the name, cremation ashes aren't actually ash in the way most people imagine. When I explain this to customers, I often see a look of surprise and then relief cross their faces. The "ashes" are primarily composed of bone fragments that have been carefully processed into a fine, sand-like consistency. During the cremation process, soft tissues are consumed, but the bones being much more durable remain. These bone fragments are then processed through a special machine called a cremulator, which reduces them to the fine powder that families receive. This powder is what I work with when creating your ashes jewellery. Understanding this helps explain why cremation ashes are so well-suited for memorial jewellery. Bone is incredibly durable and stable, which means when I incorporate your loved one's ashes into a piece of jewellery, they'll remain secure and unchanged for generations to come. The Composition That Makes Ashes Jewellery Possible The scientific composition of cremation ashes is what makes my work possible. They're primarily made up of calcium phosphate, the same mineral that gives our bones their strength throughout life. This mineral composition is remarkably stable and doesn't break down over time, making it perfect for creating lasting ashes jewellery. What I find beautiful about this is that the very strength that supported your loved one throughout their life continues on in their memorial jewellery. There's something deeply meaningful about knowing that the physical foundation of the person you loved becomes the foundation of the keepsake that will comfort you for years to come. The texture of cremation ashes varies slightly from person to person, but they typically have a consistency similar to coarse sand or fine gravel. This texture works wonderfully for the various techniques I use in creating ashes jewellery, whether I'm inlaying them in resin within a metal setting or imprinting them onto solid metal. Why Cremation Ashes Work So Well in Memorial Jewellery Over the years, I've worked with many different materials in jewellery making, but cremation ashes have unique properties that make them particularly suitable for memorial pieces. Their mineral composition means they don't degrade, discolour, or change over time when properly incorporated into jewellery. When I'm creating an inlaid piece, the ashes bond beautifully with the resins I use, creating a secure, permanent setting. The neutral colour of most cremation ashes also means they complement any metal or design choice. Whether you prefer the warm tones of gold or the classic elegance of silver, your loved one's ashes will create a beautiful contrast that enhances the overall design of your memorial jewellery. The Cremation Process and Its Impact on Ashes Jewellery To truly understand cremation ashes, it helps to know a bit about the cremation process itself. Modern cremation takes place at extremely high temperatures - typically between 1400-1800°F (760-980°C). At these temperatures, organic materials are completely consumed, leaving only the mineral components of the bones. This high-temperature process is actually beneficial for creating ashes jewellery. It ensures that the cremation ashes are completely sterile and free from any organic matter that could potentially degrade over time. The intense heat also creates a uniform consistency in the ashes, making them ideal for jewellery work. The duration of the cremation process varies depending on several factors, but it typically takes 2-3 hours. This thorough process ensures that what remains is purely the mineral essence of your loved one - the most enduring part of their physical being. How Much Ashes Are Needed for Memorial Jewellery One question I'm often asked is how much of the cremation ashes I need to create a piece of memorial jewellery. The answer usually brings great relief to families: I need only a very small amount - typically less than a teaspoon for most pieces. This means that creating ashes jewellery doesn't significantly reduce the amount of cremation ashes you have. Many families choose to create multiple pieces for different family members, or combine ashes jewellery with other memorial options like scattering or keeping an urn. The small amount needed also means that even if you only have a tiny portion of your loved one's ashes, I can still create a beautiful piece of memorial jewellery for you. I've worked with families who had just a pinch of ashes saved in a small container, and we've been able to create meaningful keepsakes that bring them great comfort. Different Types of Cremation Ashes and Their Characteristics Not all cremation ashes are identical, and understanding these differences helps me create the most beautiful ashes jewellery possible. The colour of cremation ashes can vary from light grey to darker charcoal tones, depending on various factors including the person's age, bone density, and the specific cremation process used. Younger individuals often have cremation ashes that are lighter in colour, while older individuals may have slightly darker ashes. This natural variation is something I work with when designing your ashes jewellery, ensuring that the final piece complements the unique characteristics of your loved one's remains. The particle size can also vary slightly. Some cremation ashes are very fine and powdery, while others may have slightly larger granules. Both work beautifully in ashes jewellery, but they may require different techniques to achieve the best results. I adapt my methods to work with the specific characteristics of each set of ashes I receive. The Practical Aspects of Working with Cremation Ashes When you send cremation ashes to me for jewellery creation, I handle them with the utmost care and respect. I understand that you're entrusting me with something irreplaceable, and I never take that responsibility lightly. I work in a dedicated space where I can focus completely on your piece without any distractions. Each order is handled individually, and I never work on multiple orders simultaneously to ensure there's no possibility of mixing ashes from different loved ones. The workspace I use for creating ashes jewellery is specially designed to prevent any loss of precious ashes. I use controlled lighting, anti-static surfaces, and precision tools to ensure that every grain of your loved one's ashes is accounted for and treated with the respect it deserves. After completing your ashes jewellery, I carefully return any unused ashes to you in a secure container. Many families appreciate having these returned, as it gives them options for creating additional pieces in the future or for other memorial purposes. Storage and Preservation of Cremation Ashes Before creating ashes jewellery, many families wonder about the best way to store cremation ashes. The good news is that cremation ashes are remarkably stable and don't require any special storage conditions. They won't spoil, degrade, or change over time when stored properly. I recommend keeping cremation ashes in a dry place, away from moisture. While the ashes themselves are stable, moisture can cause clumping, which makes them more difficult to work with when creating ashes jewellery. A simple sealed container in a cool, dry place is perfect. Some families worry about keeping cremation ashes for extended periods before having ashes jewellery made. There's no need for concern - I've worked with ashes that have been stored for many years, and they're just as suitable for creating beautiful memorial pieces as freshly received ashes. The Emotional Connection Through Understanding I've found that when people understand what cremation ashes actually are, it often brings them comfort. Knowing that these remains are primarily composed of the strong, enduring bones that supported their loved one throughout life can be deeply meaningful. Many customers tell me that learning about the composition of cremation ashes helps them feel more connected to the memorial jewellery process. They understand that they're not just creating a symbolic piece, but actually incorporating a physical part of their loved one into something beautiful and lasting. This understanding often helps people feel more confident about their choice to create ashes jewellery. They understand that they're not just purchasing a piece of jewellery with symbolic meaning, but creating a lasting keepsake that physically connects them to their loved one. The knowledge that cremation ashes are primarily composed of calcium phosphate - the same mineral that gave their loved one strength in life - adds another layer of meaning to ashes jewellery. It's a beautiful continuation of the support and strength that person provided throughout their life. Pet Cremation Ashes and Memorial Jewellery The same principles that apply to human cremation ashes also apply to pet cremation ashes. Our beloved pets' remains undergo the same process and have the same stable, durable composition that makes them perfect for creating memorial jewellery. Pet cremation ashes work beautifully in all the same techniques I use for human ashes jewellery. Whether you're looking for a pendant to remember a beloved dog, a ring to honour a cherished cat, or any other piece of pet memorial jewellery, the cremation ashes provide the same lasting foundation. Many families choose to create matching pieces that incorporate both human and pet ashes, celebrating the special bond between family members and their beloved companions. The similar composition of all cremation ashes makes this possible and creates truly meaningful memorial pieces. The Future of Your Ashes Jewellery Understanding the composition of cremation ashes helps explain why ashes jewellery is such a lasting tribute. The mineral content that makes up the ashes is incredibly stable and durable. When properly incorporated into jewellery, these ashes will remain unchanged for generations. This permanence is one of the things I love most about creating ashes jewellery. Unlike flowers that fade or photographs that yellow, your memorial jewellery will look as beautiful decades from now as it does the day you first wear it. The physical part of your loved one incorporated into the piece will remain as enduring as the love you carry for them. I've had customers return to me years later to have additional pieces made, and they're always amazed at how perfectly preserved their original ashes jewellery remains. The cremation ashes look exactly the same as when I first incorporated them into the piece, testament to their remarkable stability and durability. Conclusion: The Foundation of Lasting Love Understanding what cremation ashes are and why they work so beautifully in memorial jewellery helps explain why these pieces bring such comfort to those who wear them. The same strength and durability that supported your loved one throughout their life continues on in your ashes jewellery, creating a lasting connection that time cannot diminish. When you choose to create ashes jewellery, you're working with the most enduring part of your loved one - transforming it into something beautiful that you can carry with you always. The mineral composition that makes cremation ashes so stable and durable ensures that your memorial jewellery will remain a source of comfort for generations to come. The knowledge that your ashes jewellery contains the actual calcium phosphate that gave your loved one strength throughout their life adds profound meaning to every piece. It's not just a memorial - it's a continuation of their enduring presence in your life. If you're considering ashes jewellery as a way to keep your loved one close, I hope this understanding of cremation ashes helps you feel more confident in your choice. These precious remains are perfectly suited for creating beautiful, lasting memorial pieces that honour your loved one's memory while providing you with daily comfort and connection. Ready to create your meaningful ashes jewellery? Contact me at 01283 260245 or email info@ashesmemorialjewellery.com to discuss your memorial jewellery needs.

One of the most common questions that we receive is ‘how should we scatter ashes?’ Once you have received the cremains of your loved one, this is the next logical question. While some people do choose to create timeless ashes memorial jewellery, keep the ashes in an urn or other memorial vessel in the home or interred in a cemetery vault, many other prefer the idea of scattering them somewhere meaningful to the deceased. But can you scatter ashes anywhere? We have compiled this extensive guide in order to answer the most commonly asked questions about scattering ashes in the UK. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch and we will do our best to help. Where Can You Scatter Ashes? There are three main kinds of places where people wish to scatter ashes – on private property, public property, and in scattering gardens. Private Property – In the UK, you are permitted to scatter ashes on any piece of private property, providing that you have the permission of the land’s owner. Public Property – You are permitted to scatter ashes on public property. In the case of National Trust and National Parks, you do need to seek permission in advance. Get in touch with the specific property you are interested in. Scattering Gardens – Scattering gardens are becoming increasingly popular alternatives to scattering ashes on public or private property. They are tranquil gardens designed with the express purposed of having ashes scattered in their grounds, serving as a place for loved ones to visit in a peaceful, dedicated setting. Methods Of Scattering Ashes Before you begin the process of scattering your loved one’s ashes, there are a few key pieces of information that you should know. Cremains are not fine ash. In fact, they also include pieces of crushed bone that does not break down in the actual cremation process. These cremains will not be uniform in size, and their varying shapes and sizes can upset those who are not prepared for the sight. Some of the cremains will be as light as dust, and will carry on the wind. However, some are coarse and heavy, and they will fall immediately onto the ground or water. Choose a location that is suitable for both outcomes. It is also important to note that any professional you hire to help you spread the ashes should be reliable, trustworthy and experienced. A pilot, drone operator or sea captain manning the vessel you are using should have a lot of experience with scattering ashes, and they should be well-versed in local laws. Casting Ashes - This is the most common way to scatter ashes. From anywhere that you can stand and move your arm, you cast ashes into the wind. Make sure that you cast the ashes with the wind, to ensure that they do not blow back into your face. Cremains can have sharp edges, and can be an irritant if they make contact with eyes or skin (not to mention that this can be upsetting). You must also ensure that no one else is downwind. Trenching Ashes – You might choose to bury your loved one’s ashes into a shallow trench, covering with earth, and then placing a marker on top. While some people choose to place the ashes into a bio-degradable urn, others prefer to leave things natural and simply place soil on top. This is the most similar option to a traditional burial. Another trenching option occurs near the sea. People make a trench during low tide, place the ashes inside, and then wait for the high tide to wash them away to sea. This is a peaceful and meaningful process for the family to witness. Make sure that you bring suitable tools with you, and if you wish to lay down a marker, be sure that it is substantial and won’t blow or float away. Raking Ash Scattering Services – Some people prefer the idea of raking ashes into the soil. Once scattered on the ground, the cremains are then raked, allowing them to break down quickly and help fertilise the soil. When you are choosing a location to rake ashes, make sure you have a general idea about the land’s future uses. You don’t want to come back to this peaceful park next year only to find out it is now a paved lot. Water Ash Scattering Services - People all over the world choose to scatter ashes in water, from the Ganges in India to the Cornish Sea. While some simply stand on the shore, other hire a captain and vessel to go further afield. Remember – some of the ash will sink below the surface immediately while other elements will float for some time. You also need to pay attention to the direction of the wind, just as when you are on shore. If you don’t want to deal with potential blowback, consider a water-soluble and environmentally friendly urn. Aerial Scattering / Drone Scattering –You can hire a company to use a drone specifically desired to carry and scatter a set of ashes, and the event can even be filmed. The sky is really the limit, and your loved one can be spread across a wide and far area of beauty, or a landscape that meant a lot to them. Aeroplane Scattering – This is another less common option, but for some people, it is the right choice. Services are available that specialise in spreading ashes over a large area of land or water. Rules / Laws / Regulations Regarding Scattering Ashes Is it legal to scatter ashes? Yes, in the UK it is legal to scatter ashes – we have very relaxed laws compared to some other countries. If you are scattering ashes on private property, you must have permission of the owner. Can you scatter ashes in National Parks? Yes, you are usually given permission to scatter ashes in National Parks across the UK. However, you do need to seek permission in advance, and agree to leave the natural environment in the same way that you found it. Can you scatter ashes at sea? Yes, in the UK you can scatter ashes at sea or in rivers and lakes. However, the Environmental Agency would like you to keep the following points in mind. While the ashes themselves do not have much of an environmental impact, please do not scatter any personal items that are not also biodegradable. For example, flowers are fine, while plastic wreaths are not. Please choose a location away from buildings, marinas, places where people might be swimming, or fishing spots. Scatter the ashes more than half a mile upstream from anywhere where water is collected. Unsure of this? The Environmental Agency can help you to check. Scatter the ashes low and close to the water’s surface, and don’t do this on a windy day. This prevents the ashes from blowing about and impacting those who work or live in the area. Scattering ashes for Catholics – As recently as 2016, The Vatican has specified that Catholics should bury or inter, and not scatter, their loved one’s ashes. Transporting Ashes Can you carry ashes on planes? The short answer to this question is yes, but remember that every country has its own laws, and each airline has its own policies. You will normally need to show the death certification and certificate of cremation. You will also need to contact the airline to find out if you can carry the ashes in your hand luggage or checked baggage. You might also need to decant the ashes into a non-metallic container for the x-ray process. Poems and Quotes Suitable For Ashes Scattering When you are scattering your loved one’s ashes, you might choose to read aloud a poem, quote, verse or psalm. Some people also choose to play a song that meant a lot to the deceased, with Kansas’s ‘Dust on the Wind’ being a very poignant and popular choice. Think about the kinds of poetry, songs and verses that your family member, spouse or friend enjoyed, and choose something that they cherished in life. If you prefer to choose something more related to the ashes scattering ceremony itself, have a look at this link for a wide variety of choices that fit the experience well and that others have used for funerals and interment. Summary While this is certainly a solemn and important experience, knowing the rules and policies around scattering your loved one’s ashes will make the process more peaceful. Remember, while the UK is vey relaxed about scattering ashes, it is always a good idea to ask permission in advance when choosing a park, garden or other private setting.

Cremation has long been the most common option when a person passes away. A 2016 YouGov poll showed that more than three times the amount of people preferred the idea of being cremated over burial for themselves and their loved ones. Recent statistics show that more than 75% of Britons are cremated after they pass away, compared to just 18% who are buried. You might be considering cremation for your own funeral plans, or perhaps you are in the process of planning a loved one’s funeral. Learning all about cremation can help to set your mind at ease and help you understand what will happen at every stage of the process. What Is Cremation? The term cremation refers to the combustion of a corpse after death. Extreme heat is applied to the body in order to reduce it to ash and bone fragments. The resulting ash is called cremains; it consists of mineral fragments, carbon, bone other inorganic materials. Cremation is an integral part of numerous religions (including Hinduism and Buddhism). It is forbidden in Islam, Orthodox Christianity, and Orthodox Judaism. I was historically forbidden in the Catholic Church, but is now fully accepted. In modern Britain it is the most popular interment option (far ahead of burial in a coffin), and the cremation process is often a part of the funeral ceremony. What Happens At A Crematorium Funeral? Cremation rituals are different in cultures and countries around the world. A Hindu cremation ceremony on the banks of the River Ganges is going to be very different from a quiet family funeral in the UK. In North America, a traditional funeral occurs, often with an open casket, and the cremation itself takes place at a later date and time. However, in the UK, the cremation process is often integrated into the funeral. While everyone is different, you can often expect a British funeral held at a crematorium to happen along these lines: A coffin containing the body will be brought to a religious or non-religious chapel at the crematorium, and will be set on a raised platform. Guests will arrive at the location. Unlike services held in churches or halls, crematoriums often have many bookings each day, and you will need to keep to a strict schedule. The service will usually be approximately 30 minutes in length. This can include religious content, songs, and eulogies from friends and family. After the remembrances, the committal will begin. This is the point at which the coffin is removed from the room to start the actual cremation process. The coffin may be wheeled away manually, or placed on a conveyor belt to take it towards the furnace. It can also be lowered into the floor, or curtains can be closed around it. This is often a very emotional moment. As guests leave, the celebrant will lead everyone outside. The family will often be on hand to receive flowers and condolences. Many families choose to organise a wake after the service. More toasts and eulogies might occur, and people will share their memories of the deceased over food and drinks. Guests leave the service. The celebrant or funeral director will usually show guests the way out. There is usually an opportunity at this point to see the flowers that have been donated, and to give condolences to the family. The wake is held (optional). There’s often a wake after the funeral service. This is a reception at which food and drinks are served. Here, guests can talk and share their memories of the person who has died. How Is a Body Prepared For Cremation? In order to prepare for cremation, the body is first washed, and thoroughly cleaned. Embalming will only occur if a public viewing has been arranged. At this point all jewellery is removed in order for the family to keep it safe, and all medical devices are extracted from the body. This includes pacemakers, prosthetics, and any other device containing batteries. Metal pins, screws and plates will stay in place, as they do not affect the furnace chamber. The body is then dressed and placed in the coffin. Hair styling and make up might be applied if the family has arranged a viewing. How Does Cremation Work? The cremation process occurs in a specially designed chamber, sometimes referred to as a retort. The chamber is preheated to an intense temperature that ranges from 870–980 degrees Celsius. A mechanised door is opened, the coffin is transferred inside, and then the door is quickly shut order to prevent heat loss. The coffin will burn first, and the body is then exposed to the flames. The intense heat dries out the body, the hair and skin will incinerate, and the muscles will contract and char into ashes. The bones do not burn; instead, they calcify and reduce to a crumbling texture. All gases that are released are ventilated through a special exhaust system. No odour is produced, as a specific process vaporises all smoke and gases. While some crematories utilise a secondary afterburner to break the body down further, others have the technician do this with specific tools. The cremains are allowed to cool, and then all metal (screws, dental gold, hinges from the casket) is collected with a strong magnet and disposed of according to local law. The cremains are then pulverised further using a machine called a cremulator. This results in a fine sand-like powder that is transferred into an urn or box and given to the relatives. Some people choose to spread their loved one’s ashes in a beloved location, while others use a small portion of the cremains to create meaningful ashes jewellery. How Long Does Cremation Take? The actual cremation process takes between one and three hours, and results in 1.5 – 3 kilos of cremains. However, you might have to wait between 3 to 15 business days to secure an appointment at your local crematorium. Certain parts of the country experience regular delays and backlogs. How Much Is Cremation? As with any funeral, the cost of the entire ceremony can vary dramatically depending on setting, number of guests, the wake, and the flowers. However, the standard pricing for a cremation with no ceremony is roughly £1400 in England & Wales, and £1200 in Scotland (owing to different regulations around doctor’s certificates). Frequently Asked Question About Cremation: How Long Is A Cremation Service? Every service is different, but the standard is 30 – 45 minutes. Can You Scatter Ashes At Sea? Yes, in the UK the scattering of ashes at sea or in rivers is common and legal. What Are Human Ashes Made Of? Human ashes are called cremains, and they are comprised mainly of dry calcium phosphates, along with minerals, including salts of sodium and potassium. How Much Ash Is There After Cremation? The amount of cremains differs person to person, and depends mainly on the bone density of the deceased. An adult’s cremains usually weight between 1.5 – 3 kilograms. What's Cheaper: Burial or Cremation? Cremation is the more economical option, as a UK cremation and funeral costs an average of £3,311. With burial, the cost is nearly 25% more, at £4,257 for a burial (not including the cost of the plot) How Long After Death Is A Funeral Cremation? Traditionally, a funeral is often held around one week after the death. However, crematoria can be fully booked for weeks at a time, and so this can take longer to arrange. How Long After Cremation Until You Get The Ashes? The cremains are usually ready to be picked up or delivered within seven to ten days. They can be presented to you in a box, an urn or another container of your choice. Summary It is never easy to talk about death, but learning about cremation can make your decisions much easier. As you can see, cremation is a common, respectful and economical choice for interment.