Cremation Keepsake FAQ
Common Questions About Cremation Keepsakes
Learn what cremation keepsakes are, how ashes are incorporated, which designs are available, and what to consider when choosing a memorial.
What is a cremation keepsake?+
A cremation keepsake is a memorial item created to preserve a small portion of cremated remains in a meaningful form. Keepsakes can be held, hung, used, or displayed and may include ornaments, flowers, sculptures, waves, shells, animals, functional pieces, and other artistic designs.
How are ashes incorporated into a glass cremation keepsake?+
The artist carefully adds a small portion of cremation ash while shaping the hot glass. Additional glass is layered around the ashes, permanently sealing them inside the finished artwork. The ashes become part of the keepsake itself rather than being stored in a hollow compartment.
What kinds of keepsakes can be made from cremation ashes?+
Cremation ashes can be incorporated into hanging memorials, ornaments, flowers, window spinners, waves, shells, bud vases, guitar picks, birds, animals, symbolic sculptures, and many other handcrafted forms. Choosing a design connected to someone’s interests, personality, favorite place, or shared memory can make the finished keepsake especially personal.
How much ash is needed for a cremation keepsake?+
Many cremation keepsakes recommend approximately one-quarter teaspoon of ashes, although larger designs may request more. The amount varies by the size, form, and creation method used for the memorial. The recommended amount is listed on each individual product page.
Can you see the ashes inside a glass cremation keepsake?+
Yes. The ashes are visibly incorporated into the glass and commonly appear as soft white, slightly shimmering details, tiny bubbles, or natural patterns within the design. Their exact appearance varies with the glassmaking technique and the individual characteristics of the ashes.
Can cremation keepsakes be made with human or pet ashes?+
Yes. Cremation keepsakes can be created with either human or pet cremated remains. The same respectful process is used whether the memorial honors a family member, friend, dog, cat, horse, or another deeply loved companion.
Can ashes from more than one loved one be combined in one keepsake?+
Yes. Ashes from two loved ones, two pets, or a person and a pet can be combined within one cremation keepsake. Place the requested total amount together in the same clearly labeled bag and include a note explaining whose ashes should be represented in the memorial.
Can one set of ashes be used to create several keepsakes?+
Yes. A single cremation provides enough ashes for many memorial keepsakes because each piece requires only a small measured portion. This allows several relatives to choose different designs while each receiving a personal remembrance created from the same set of ashes.
Can hair or pet fur be used instead of cremated remains?+
Select cremation keepsakes can be created with human hair, pet fur, whiskers, or horse mane instead of ashes. When hair is incorporated into hot glass, the heat transforms it into tiny bubbles and flowing patterns rather than preserving its original appearance. Review the individual listing to confirm which materials the artist accepts.
Can I choose the colors used in my cremation keepsake?+
Yes. Begin by choosing the keepsake design that feels most meaningful, then select from the color options available for that specific piece. Choices vary by artist and design. Because every keepsake is made by hand, the exact movement of the colors and placement of the ashes will be unique.
Where can a cremation keepsake be displayed?+
Cremation keepsakes can be displayed on a shelf, desk, bedside table, mantel, memorial table, or another meaningful space in the home or office. Hanging designs can be placed in a window, on a display stand, or on a Christmas tree when appropriate. Choose a location suited to the size and intended use of the individual design.
