6 Cremation Jewelry Myths & Misconceptions

In 2015, cremation surpassed burials for the first time, and it continues to climb in popularity. One advantage of cremation is that it allows you to remember and honor your loved one in your own way. While urns are the most common way to store a loved one’s remains, cremation jewelry is becoming a popular option for people who want to carry a piece of their loved ones with them.

Despite its rise in popularity, there are still many myths and misconceptions about cremation jewelry. Here are six of the most common myths.

1. Cremation Jewelry is Creepy

Some people are uncomfortable with the idea of wearing their loved one’s ashes. Sometimes, the discomfort stems from fear. Religious and spiritual beliefs may also influence a person’s opinion on whether cremation (and cremation jewelry) is appropriate.

Death and grief in general are uncomfortable subjects in today’s society, which can permeate this idea that cremation jewelry is creepy.

However, the concept of cremation jewelry isn’t a new one, and even before its invention, people were wearing mourning rings in remembrance of their deceased loved ones.

Cremation jewelry as we know it today   17th century England, and these pieces were capable of not only holding ashes, but braided hair and dried flowers.

For many, wearing their loved one’s ashes brings them comfort and closure. Each time they look at the jewelry or feel it move around, they’re reminded of their loved one. It’s a way to feel close and keep the person’s memory alive.

It’s also important to remember that cremation jewelry doesn’t necessarily have to contain the person’s ashes. You can place anything that reminds you of your loved one inside the jewelry.

2. Cremation Jewelry is Obvious or Attention-Grabbing

Some people are reluctant to buy cremation jewelry because they’re afraid that it will be too obvious or attract too much attention. Today, there are so many subtle style options. Most people won’t even know that you’re wearing cremation jewelry.

Of course, some people welcome the attention and wear their jewelry as a conversation-starter. They love having the opportunity to share memories and talk about their loved one.

The idea that cremation jewelry is obvious is a myth. Whether you prefer something discreet or attention-grabbing, there is an option for everyone. In fact, many of the pieces that we offer are exquisite and incredibly subtle, like our sterling silver Pendant Feather or Serenity cremation bracelet bead.

If you’re drawn to the idea of cremation jewelry, there are many themes, stones and materials to choose from, including:

• Sterling silver, gold, titanium and stainless steel.
• Diamonds, semi-precious stones, crystals and more.
• A variety of designs, from nature to sports, flowers, paw prints, hearts and more.

Some jewelry makers also offer custom designs, so you can create a piece that is uniquely yours and a wonderful reminder of your loved one.

3. Cremation Jewelry Exploits the Dead

People are at their most vulnerable during times of grief and loss. Many reach out for comfort and closure during a time of uncertainty and pain. Cremation jewelry can serve this purpose, but some people misconstrue this as exploitation.

Cremation jewelry is an option - not a requirement. For many, having the option to carry a tangible part of their loved one with them brings tremendous comfort. It’s also a wonderful way to honor loved ones and keep their memory alive. If a simple token helps you through the grieving process, then it is worth every penny.

4. Cremation Jewelry Makes It Harder to Accept a Loss

Everyone goes through the grieving process differently. For some, it can be difficult to accept a person’s death and move forward in life. Some may view cremation jewelry as a constant reminder of the loss or an obstacle in the way of acceptance.

However, for many, the opposite is true. Having a part of their loved one with them helps bring closure and makes it just a little easier to reach the acceptance stage. Many people find comfort and peace in having a part of their loved one with them. Yes, we have memories, but cremation jewelry gives you something tangible to hold onto.

5. Cremation Jewelry is Hard to Fill

Another common misconception about cremation jewelry is that they’re difficult to fill. No matter the type of jewelry that you choose, the piece will have a small, hidden compartment to hold your loved one’s remains.

The opening is small and designed to hold just a pinch of ashes. Most jewelry pieces come with a filling kit that makes it easy to add your loved one’s ashes. A scooping spoon and packing tool help simplify the process and ensure that your loved one’s remains are placed safely in the jewelry’s urn.

If you’re concerned about your loved one’s ashes staying in the compartment, adhesives can be used to seal it shut after it’s filled.

6. Cremation Jewelry is Only for Human Ashes

Many people are surprised to learn that cremation jewelry can be used for more than just human ashes. It can be used to hold:

• Pet cremains
• Sand from your loved one’s favorite beach
• Soil from where your loved one’s remains are buried
• A lock of hair

Many pet owners choose cremation jewelry as a way to remember their four-legged companions. In fact, many jewelry designs have pet themes, such as paw-prints, hearts or dog bones.

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It’s important to remember that cremation jewelry is a personal thing. There is no right or wrong way to use it. The purpose is to fill it with something that will remind you of the person. For most people, this means storing their loved one’s remains in a pendant, bracelet, ring or other piece of jewelry that they can wear every day.

These are just a few of the many myths and misconceptions about cremation jewelry. Modern jewelry designs and a greater acceptance of cremation have made it less “taboo” to wear a loved one’s ashes. For many, there’s no greater comfort than having their loved one close to their heart.