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Memorial jewelry lets people keep a loved one close. Some pieces hold a tiny amount of cremated remains; others carry an engraving, a fingerprint or a birthstone.
Types of memorial jewelry
- Cremation (ash) pendants: a small sealed chamber holds a pinch of ashes. Styles include cylinders, hearts, teardrops and lockets.
- Ash-infused glass or resin: ashes are blended into glass or resin by an artisan.
- Fingerprint and handwriting jewelry: engraved with a loved one’s fingerprint (often taken by the funeral home) or handwriting.
- Engraved pieces: names, dates, coordinates or a short phrase.
- Photo lockets: hold a small photograph.
What to check before buying
- Material. Stainless steel and titanium resist tarnish and are good for daily wear. Sterling silver is classic but needs care. Gold costs more.
- Seal. Ask how the chamber closes. Many use a threaded screw; a drop of jewelry adhesive gives a permanent seal.
- Size. Chambers hold very little; a filling kit (small funnel and scoop) helps.
- Water. Remove sealed pieces before swimming or bathing unless the maker says otherwise.
- Timing. Engraving and artisan pieces take time to make.
Fingerprints
Ask the funeral home early if you would like fingerprints; they can often be taken while your loved one is in their care.