Understanding Cremation Urns and Keepsakes: Options After Direct Cremation
Cremation urns and keepsakes hold a special significance for families who choose direct cremation in Columbus, OH for their loved ones. While direct cremation does not involve a formal funeral service, it does not diminish the need for a respectful and meaningful way to honor the deceased. In this guide, we will explore the various options available for cremation urns and keepsakes, providing insights into how to choose the right one to keep the memory of your loved one close.
Introduction to Cremation Urns and Keepsakes
When a loved one passes, deciding on how to honor their memory can be a profound yet challenging task. For families opting for direct cremation, selecting an appropriate urn or keepsake becomes an integral part of the grieving process. Direct cremation offers a straightforward and affordable way to handle the remains, yet families still desire dignified and heartfelt ways to remember their loved ones. This guide will delve into the different types of cremation urns and keepsakes, providing valuable tips to help you make the best choice for your family’s needs.
Types of Cremation Urns
Cremation urns come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each serving a unique purpose and fitting different aesthetic preferences. Here are some popular types of urns:
Traditional Urns
These are classic urns made from materials such as brass, wood, marble, and ceramic. They are often used for display in the home or placed in a columbarium.
Biodegradable Urns
For families interested in an eco-friendly option, biodegradable urns are designed to break down naturally over time when buried. They are made from materials like paper, sand, and salt.
Keepsake Urns
These smaller urns hold a portion of the cremated remains, allowing multiple family members to keep a part of their loved one close.
Jewelry Urns
These are wearable keepsakes, such as necklaces, bracelets, or rings, which contain a small amount of cremated remains. They offer a discreet and personal way to keep the deceased close to heart.
Choosing the Right Urn
Selecting the right urn involves considering several factors:
Material and Durability
Depending on where you plan to keep the urn (e.g., home display, burial, or scattering), you’ll need to choose a material that suits your needs.
Size
Urns come in many sizes. A standard adult urn typically holds about two hundred cubic inches of ashes. Keepsake urns and jewelry urns are much smaller.
Design and Personalization
Many urns can be personalized with engravings, photos, or other decorations to reflect the personality and interests of the deceased.
Exploring Keepsakes
In addition to urns, there are various keepsakes designed to memorialize the deceased in a meaningful way:
Cremation Jewelry
As mentioned, pieces of jewelry that hold a small portion of the remains can be a cherished keepsake.
Memorial Plaques and Frames
These items can include a photo and a small amount of ashes, serving as a beautiful display piece.
Glass Art
Some artisans create glass sculptures or ornaments incorporating a small portion of the cremated remains, creating a unique and artistic memorial.
Making the Decision
Choosing an urn or keepsake is a deeply personal decision. It’s important to take your time, consider your options, and select something that feels right for honoring your loved one. Whether you prefer a traditional urn for display, a biodegradable option for an eco-friendly burial, or a piece of jewelry to keep your loved one close, the most important aspect is that it reflects your family’s wishes and the memory of the deceased.
Conclusion
Cremation urns and keepsakes provide a lasting tribute to a loved one’s memory, offering comfort and a tangible way to honor their life. By understanding the different options and what each type of urn or keepsake offers, families can make informed decisions that align with their preferences and values.
For more information on selecting the right urn or keepsake after direct cremation in Columbus, OH, please contact us today. We are here to help you through this challenging time with compassion and care.
