Things to Do With Cremation Ashes

Discover the myriad of unique, meaningful, and personal ways you can memorialize your loved one’s cremation ashes. Whether you want something traditional or a little extraordinary, this guide explores a wide array of options. Remember, it’s all about what you feel would best honor your loved one's memory.

Pendants or Keepsake Jewelry

Transforming cremains into custom jewelry pieces presents a unique way to keep your loved ones always close. Specialists can incorporate a small amount of ashes into lockets, bracelets, or rings. Other options include ash-infused glass beads or diamonds made from cremains.

Scatter Ashes

For many, scattering ashes in a meaningful location allows for a gentle goodbye. This might be a place cherished by the deceased, somewhere you shared memorable moments, or an area they once hoped to visit. Always ensure you have permission before scattering ashes.

Biodegradable Urns

Biodegradable urns provide an eco-friendly solution to return ashes to the earth. Options include tree urns – where the ashes nourish a growing tree – or water-soluble urns for a sea burial.

Tattoos

You can have a small portion of the ashes mixed with ink to create a memorial tattoo. Ash-infused tattoos let your loved one’s memory live on as a genuine piece of you.

Things to Do With Cremation Ashes Example:

Creating a Memorial Reef

For those who enjoyed the sea or marine life, consider transforming their ashes into a memorial reef. Companies such as Eternal Reefs combine cremains with an eco-friendly, marine safe concrete mixture to create a reef structure. This permanent living legacy then becomes a new habitat for marine life, perpetuating the cycle of life even in death.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I scatter cremation ashes anywhere?

Scattering ashes is subject to local laws and regulations. It's always important to check with local authorities or governing bodies of the desired location for permission. National parks, for example, often require a permit for scattering ashes.

What are some meaningful ways to use cremation ashes?

Cremation ashes can be incorporated into items like jewelry, glass art, or even part of a coral reef. They can also be kept in decorative urns, buried in a family plot, planted with a tree, or turned into a vinyl record.

Is it safe to keep cremation ashes at home?

Yes, it is generally safe to keep cremation ashes at home in an urn or other sealed container. There are no health risks associated with keeping ashes.

Can cremation ashes be turned into a tattoo?

Yes, there is a process called "commemorative tattooing" where a small amount of cremation ashes is mixed with tattoo ink and applied to the skin, though it is essential to find a tattoo artist skilled and experienced in this practice.

Are there eco-friendly options for cremation ashes?

Eco-friendly options include biodegradable urns crafted for burial at sea or on land, which decompose naturally over time, or incorporating ashes into a living urn with a tree sapling so it can grow into a living memorial.

How much ash is left after cremation?

The amount of ash left after cremation typically ranges from 4 to 8 pounds, depending on the size and bone structure of the deceased.

Can I combine ashes from multiple people or pets?

It is possible to combine ashes from multiple people or pets in one receptacle if desired, as a way of symbolizing their eternal unity.

Do cremation ashes have an expiration date?

Cremation ashes do not have an expiration date. They are essentially bone fragments that have been pulverized to a fine consistency and can last indefinitely if stored properly.

Is it possible to split cremation ashes among family members?

Yes, cremation ashes can be divided into multiple urns or keepsakes, allowing different family members to retain a portion of the ashes as a personal remembrance.

Can cremation ashes be used in planting a tree?

Indeed, you can use cremation ashes to plant a tree. Specialized products like bio-urns allow you to mix ashes with soil and a tree sapling, creating a living memorial from the remains.

What should I consider before scattering ashes?

Before scattering ashes, consider the wishes of the deceased and the feelings of family members or friends who may want to visit the site. Additionally, always verify legality and acquire necessary permits for the chosen location.

Are there any religious concerns with scattering or keeping cremation ashes?

Some religions have specific guidelines or prohibitions regarding cremation and the handling of ashes. It is essential to consult with religious leaders or adhere to faith-based customs when making decisions concerning cremation ashes.

How can I make a ceremony out of scattering ashes?

You can personalize an ash scattering ceremony by selecting a meaningful location, reading poetry or literature, playing favorite music of the deceased, or inviting friends and family to share memories and reflections.

Can I travel with cremation ashes?

Yes, you can travel with cremation ashes. For air travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that the urn be x-ray friendly, and it's wise to carry a copy of the death certificate and cremation certificate. For international travel, check the regulations of the destination country before departing.

What are the benefits of having cremation ashes turned into a memorial object?

Memorial objects, like jewelry or art pieces, allow individuals to keep the memory of a loved one close in daily life. They can provide comfort and serve as a physical reminder of the deceased’s presence.

Can cremation ashes be harmful to the environment?

While cremation ashes are not harmful to the environment, their pH and mineral composition can affect the growth of plants if not properly diluted or mixed. Special biodegradable urns can help mitigate any potential impact when used for planting or scattering.

Is it possible to place cremation ashes in a traditional grave?

Yes, you can place cremation ashes in a traditional grave. Many cemeteries offer the option to inter an urn in a smaller plot, or in a plot alongside a buried casket.

What are the legal considerations of keeping cremation ashes at home?

Keeping ashes at home does not typically have legal restrictions; however, it is recommended to retain the cremation certificate, and if you move out of state or country, check any local regulations that may apply.

How do I choose an urn for cremation ashes?

When choosing an urn, consider the size, material, and design that reflects the personality of the deceased or fits well with how the ashes will be used or displayed.

Can I create multiple memorials from cremation ashes?

Yes, you can create multiple memorials from cremation ashes, such as planting different trees in various locations or making several keepsake jewelry items for family members.

What are my options if I decide to keep the ashes without scattering?

If you choose not to scatter the ashes, options include placing them in a decorative urn, storing them in a columbarium niche, burying them in a cemetery plot, or incorporating them into a personalized memorial object. Some also opt for temporary storage while deciding on a permanent solution.

Death is an inevitable part of life. How we choose to commemorate our loved ones is deeply personal and unique to each individual. From scatterings at their favorite place to memorial tattoos, there are numerous creative and beautiful ways to honour the memory of your loved one. Share this guide with others who may benefit from these ideas or explore our other guides on Eulogy Assistant for more help during this difficult time.