Wearing a Necklace With Ashes

After a loved one passes away, deciding what to do with their cremated remains can be a profound and emotionally challenging journey. In addition to traditional methods such as burying or scattering, turning ashes into jewelry is growing in popularity and can provide a more personal and enduring memorial.

Many people have an initial gut level reaction to the idea of wearing a necklace with ashes, which can be caused by childhood Halloween lore, various media portrayals and our general reluctance to talk openly about death and grief. However, if the thought of having a tangible reminder of your departed loved one brings you comfort and peace, then cremation necklaces for women and men may be an option worth considering.

There are two different types of ash pendants and other pieces of jewelry that can be worn with a small portion of your deceased loved one’s cremated ashes, lock of hair, dried flower or soil from a special place. The first type of cremation jewelry simply holds a portion of the remains within an ornate container. This can be found in the form of urn-shaped jewelry such as pendants or teardrop necklaces, but also three-dimensional crosses and even hearts. Each item has a tiny funnel that allows a small amount of cremains to be transferred into the piece, then sealed.

When selecting the right cremation necklace for you, consider your personal style and lifestyle as well as the available engraving or inlay options. A simple engraving may be best if you travel often or prefer to keep your jewelry minimal, while inlaid birthstones and gems can work if you’re planning to wear the piece regularly.

Once you’ve selected your urn necklace, be sure to care for it properly. It’s important to remove your necklace before showering or bathing to prevent water seepage into the secure chamber closure where the ashes are stored. Regular exposure to chlorine from swimming pools and harsh chemicals can also tarnish sterling silver, so it’s best to avoid any contact with these elements. You should also remove your keepsake when you exercise or sweat, as these substances can have a negative impact on the seal.

Finally, be sure to clean your unique cremation ash necklace with a flannel jewelry cloth regularly to remove any tarnish and keep it in good condition. If you notice extreme tarnishing, there are silver polishing pastes that can be used safely and effectively on your cremation urn necklace without damaging the ashes inside.

Cremation urn necklaces can be worn at any time, but it’s especially appropriate to wear them during holidays such as Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day when many of us remember our loved ones who have passed. The holidays can be an especially difficult time to grieve, but having a physical reminder of your departed loved one can help lessen some of the sting and allow you to celebrate their life in a way that feels right for you.