When a loved one passes away, and their wish was cremation, honoring that wish may involve the use of ashes holders. This article seeks to broaden your understanding of ashes holders for cremation, how they work, their types, and how to make a thoughtful, well-informed decision.
Table of Contents
What Are Ashes Holders?
Ashes holders, also known as urns, serve as containers designed to hold ashes after the cremation process. They come in different sizes, designs, shapes, and are made with various materials, such as metal, ceramic, glass, and wood.
The Types of Ashes Holders
Metal Urns
Metal urns are sturdy and less vulnerable to damage. They come in various materials, including bronze, brass, stainless steel, and aluminium. The choice often depends on personal preferences or intricate designs engraved on them.
Ceramic Urns
These urns are aesthetically pleasing, often handcrafted with exquisite designs. However, they demand a gentle handle to avoid chips or cracks.
Glass Urns
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Glass urns provide a classy style with their transparent beauty. They can be simplistic or intricately decorated, lending an air of sophistication.
Wooden Urns
Wooden urns offer a calming, rustic appeal that projects warmth and tranquility. They are usually made from oak, mahogany, pine, or walnut.
Choosing the Right Ashes Holder
Choosing the right ashes holder is influenced by several variables, such as the deceased's wishes, storage location, size, material, and design.
The Deceased's Wishes
If possible, consider the deceased's preferences or lifestyle. Some might have expressed a preference for a particular material or style.
Storage Location
Where the ashes will be stored can influence the choice of the holder. If the ashes will be buried, biodegradable urns are essential; if displayed, then an aesthetically pleasing urn will be a fitting choice.
Size
The cremains' quantity can also influence the urn's size. A standard urn usually holds about 200 cubic inches of ashes.
Material
The material decision is based on personal tastes, budget, and preferred aesthetics.
Design
Much like the material, design preference can vary significantly.
Ashes Holders for Cremation Example:
For example, let's imagine a recently deceased great-grandmother named Mrs Pattison had a great love for painting ceramics in her garden. Her family might choose a hand-painted ceramic urn reflecting her affinity for art and nature. The ash holder then becomes a beautiful, fitting tribute to her life, values, and passions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are ashes holders for cremation commonly known as?
Ashes holders for cremation are often referred to as urns, cremation urns, or memorial urns. These containers are designed to hold the ashes of a loved one after the cremation process.
What materials are used to make cremation urns?
Cremation urns are made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, ceramic, glass, biodegradable materials, and stone. The choice of material often depends on personal preference, intended use (e.g., interment, scattering, or display), and budget.
How do I choose the right size urn?
The size of the urn you need is typically determined by the weight of the deceased before cremation. As a general rule, one cubic inch of urn space is needed for every pound of body weight. Therefore, an individual who weighed 150 pounds would need an urn that is at least 150 cubic inches or larger.
Are there different types of urns for different uses?
Yes, there are several types of urns designed for various purposes. Keepsake urns are smaller and meant for holding a portion of the ashes. Biodegradable urns are intended for earth-friendly burials or water scatterings. Companion urns are larger and meant to hold the ashes of two individuals. There are also urns specifically designed for scattering ashes.
Can I personalize a cremation urn?
Many urns can be personalized with engravings, which may include the name of the deceased, birth and death dates, quotes, or personal messages. Some urns also allow for the addition of photographs, artwork, or symbols.
Is it possible to create a custom urn?
Yes, custom urns can be designed and crafted to reflect the unique personality and preferences of the deceased. This can be done through custom shapes, materials, colors, and added personal touches.
How do I maintain and care for a cremation urn?
The care for a cremation urn depends on its material. Metal urns should be kept dry and polished with the appropriate cleaners. Wood urns may require occasional polishing with wood-friendly products. Ceramic and glass urns should be dusted and kept in a safe place to prevent chipping or breakage.
Is it necessary to buy an urn from a funeral home?
No, while funeral homes offer urns, you are not obligated to purchase one from them. Urns can be bought from a variety of sources, including online retailers, specialty stores, and artisans. Price comparison and a wider selection are benefits of looking beyond the funeral home.
Can I transport an urn on an airplane?
Yes, you can transport an urn on an airplane, but it's important to check with the airline regarding their specific policies. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that urns be scanned through X-ray for security protocols, therefore the urn material should not be metal or any substance that is not X-ray transparent.
Are there any legal restrictions on where ashes can be placed or scattered?
There can be legal restrictions depending on the location, so it's advisable to check with local authorities or park services before scattering ashes. Some places require permits, and there are often rules that need to be followed for environmental protection purposes.
How secure are the ashes inside an urn?
Most urns are designed with a secure closure system to keep the ashes contained. This can be a threaded lid, a clasp, or a sealable opening. It's important to ensure that the urn is properly sealed to prevent any spillage or exposure of the ashes.
What if I need to share the ashes among several family members?
If ashes need to be shared among family members, keepsake urns or cremation jewelry can be used. These are smaller containers or pieces that hold a small portion of the ashes, allowing multiple family members to have a personal memorial.
Can I bury a cremation urn?
Yes, cremation urns can be buried. Some are specifically designed for burial with materials that will degrade over time if an eco-friendly option is preferred. Alternatively, traditional urns can also be buried in a cemetery plot, urn garden, or at another location where burials are permitted.
What is a columbarium and can I place an urn there?
A columbarium is a structure designed for the respectful storage of cremation urns. It's typically a wall with niches where urns can be placed and often includes a nameplate or memorial marker. Most columbarium niches can accommodate standard-sized urns, and they offer a permanent location for visitation.
Do all cremation urns look the same?
Cremation urns come in a wide range of designs, colors, and themes. From simple and traditional to modern and artistic, there is a variety of styles to represent the uniqueness of the individual or to match home décor if the urn will be displayed.
What should I consider when buying an urn for a veteran or military member?
For veterans or military members, you may want to consider urns that reflect their service, such as those with flag designs, military insignia, or branch-specific emblems. It's also common to include personalized engravings that acknowledge their service.
Are there eco-friendly options for ashes holders?
Yes, there are eco-friendly urn options available. Biodegradable urns are designed to dissolve over time without harming the environment, making them suitable for green burials or water ceremonies. They are often made from materials like paper, salt, or sand.
What is the average cost of a cremation urn?
The cost of cremation urns can vary widely depending on the material, size, craftsmanship, and personalization. Prices can range from as little as $50 to $60 for basic models to several hundred or even thousands of dollars for high-end or custom designs.
How do I ensure the urn I purchase is of good quality?
To ensure good quality, purchase urns from reputable retailers or artisans who offer product descriptions and specifications. Look for customer reviews, return policies, and guarantees or warranties. It's also recommended to consult with others who have previously purchased an urn.
Can I place items other than ashes into the cremation urn?
Yes, some people choose to place other meaningful items into the cremation urn along with the ashes. This might include letters, photographs, or small mementos that were significant to the deceased. Ensure that there is enough space within the urn and that the items are safe to store alongside the ashes.
Can an urn be used for pets?
Absolutely. pet cremation urns are available for the ashes of beloved pet companions. These urns often come in sizes suitable for smaller creatures and may feature designs or engravings reflecting the special bond between pets and owners.
In loss, every decision carries profound emotional weight. By understanding more about ashes holders for cremation, you can make a choice that honors your loved one appropriately. Don't forget to share this article with others who may find it useful and explore other guides on Eulogy Assistant to navigate the mourning process with knowledge and sensitivity.