If you've recently lost someone dear to you, you may have heard about memorial jewellery but aren't quite sure what it involves. The idea of wearing a piece of jewellery that contains a small amount of your loved one's ashes or hair can feel both comforting and unfamiliar. Here, we explain exactly how it works, step by step, so you can feel confident and informed.
What Is Memorial Jewellery?
Memorial jewellery, also known as cremation jewellery, ashes jewellery, or remembrance jewellery, is a piece of jewellery designed to hold a tiny amount of cremation ashes, a lock of hair, or another small keepsake. It allows you to carry your loved one with you every day, close to your heart or on your hand.
Pieces range from rings and pendants to bracelets, charms, and earrings. Many are crafted in sterling silver, gold, or gold vermeil and are designed to look like any other fine piece of jewellery; no one would know the meaning it holds unless you choose to share it.
How Are Ashes Added to the Jewellery?
There are two main methods used to incorporate ashes into memorial jewellery:
- Sealed compartment: Many pendants, charms, and rings feature a discreet, threaded chamber or screw-top compartment. A small amount of ashes is placed inside using a filling kit (a tiny funnel, a pin tool, and adhesive to seal it). This is something you can do at home, in your own time.
- Set into resin or glass: Some designs incorporate the ashes directly into coloured resin or glass, creating a beautiful visual element within the jewellery. This is done by the jeweller during the crafting process.
How Much Ash Do You Need?
Very little. Most memorial jewellery requires just a pinch, roughly 0.1 to 0.5 grams, which is far less than a quarter of a teaspoon. A standard adult cremation produces 2.5 to 3.5 kg of ashes, so there is always more than enough for multiple pieces of jewellery, an urn, and other keepsakes.
What About Hair or Fur?
Many memorial pieces can hold a tiny lock of hair instead of, or alongside, ashes. This is a popular choice for those who wish to keep a tangible connection without using cremation ashes, or for pet owners wanting to remember a beloved companion.
The Ordering Process at Devall & Son
- Choose your piece. Browse our collections and select the jewellery that speaks to you.
- Receive your filling kit. For compartment-style pieces, we send you everything you need to add ashes or hair at home, with clear, step-by-step instructions.
- Personalise (optional). Many pieces can be engraved with a name, date, or short message.
- Wear and cherish. Your memorial jewellery is ready to wear every day as a quiet, personal tribute.
Is It Discreet?
Absolutely. Our memorial jewellery is designed to be elegant and understated. Unless you choose to tell someone, there is no visible indication that the piece contains ashes or hair. It simply looks like a beautiful piece of jewellery.
If you have any questions at all about how memorial jewellery works, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We're here to help, with no pressure and no rush.