If you recently lost a loved one who asked to be cremated, you might be looking into solutions for their cremains that go beyond the standard urn. The good news for most is that there are a variety of options that you can consider. Here's a look at some of the things that you can discuss with the crematorium for dealing with your loved one's cremains.
Gemstone Conversion
In recent years, gemstone conversion has become increasingly popular. This process takes the cremains and processes them into a diamond through compression. Then, that diamond can be used in any setting you wish to honor your loved one. Whether you're looking for a ring or a pendant, there are options for everyone.
Memorial Containers
If there are many loved ones in your family who would wish to have something to remember your lost family member by, you may want to talk with the crematorium about dividing the cremains up into various smaller, personal containers. There are many different memorial urns and other types of containers made for just this purpose. They are smaller so that each family member can receive a small portion of the cremains. It's best to leave this division up to the crematorium so that you don't risk the loss of any ash trying to do it yourself.
Garden Stones
Whether you're creating a larger stepping stone for your backyard pathway or a small memorial stone that you can take with you should you ever sell your house, cremains can be made into many different styles of memorial garden stones. You can even have the stone stamped with your loved one's name and dates of birth and death, or add a favorite phrase.
Cremains Tattoos
One memorial use that has been more widely discussed over the last few years is tattooing with cremains. In this process, a small amount of cremains will be mixed into the tattoo ink before the tattoo is done. The goal is to have the deceased be a permanent part of the image that's tattooed, and this is often done with a memorial phrase, portrait tattoo, or a character of significance.
These are some of the most popular alternative means for handling cremains. If you're looking for a long-term memorial option, consider these solutions and talk with the crematorium about any other options that might be available to you. There's sure to be a solution that will honor your loved one's memory in the most suitable way. For more information on cremation services, contact a company near you.
