A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Memorial Keepsake
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What Is Cremation Jewelry? A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Memorial Keepsake
Choosing cremation jewelry is personal. This guide explains what it is, how it works, and how to pick a piece you’ll feel good wearing every day.
What is cremation jewelry?
Cremation jewelry (sometimes called memorial jewelry or ashes jewelry) is a necklace, bracelet, ring, or charm that holds a very small portion of ashes inside a sealed compartment. Many families choose it because it creates a quiet sense of closeness — something meaningful you can keep with you.
If you’re new to this, you’re not alone. Most people don’t shop for cremation jewelry often, and it’s normal to have questions about safety, sizing, and what to choose.
How does cremation jewelry hold ashes?
Most cremation jewelry has a small inner chamber and a threaded closure (often accessed by a tiny screw). When properly filled and sealed, the compartment is secure for daily wear.
Quick note: Cremation jewelry is designed to hold a small amount of ashes — not all of them. Many families pair jewelry with a keepsake urn or a full-size urn.
How much ashes fit in cremation jewelry?
Most pieces hold a very small portion — often described as a “pinch” or “small scoop.” The goal isn’t quantity; it’s symbolism. If you’d like to keep more at home, a keepsake urn is a great companion option.
How to choose the right cremation jewelry
Here are the choices that matter most (and the ones you can ignore).
1) Choose a style you’ll actually wear
- Everyday wear: simple pendant necklaces and classic bracelets
- Dressier / occasional: decorative designs or statement pieces
- Most meaningful: pieces that match the loved one’s personality (favorite color, symbol, shape)
2) Pick the right material for your lifestyle
- Surgical-grade / stainless steel: durable, great for daily wear, low maintenance
- Sterling silver: classic look, may require occasional polishing
- Premium metals: best for heirloom-style keepsakes
3) Decide if personalization matters to you
Some people want a clean, minimal look. Others want engraving, names, dates, fingerprints, or a signature style piece. There’s no wrong answer — it’s about what brings comfort.
4) Consider who it’s for
- For yourself: pick something you’ll reach for on hard days
- For multiple family members: choose a cohesive style (matching pendants, bracelets, or charms)
- For a gift: keep it classic, timeless, and easy to wear