Buying a cremation keepsake urn is not an easy purchase for most people. Not only is it an item we buy very infrequently (hopefully) but it's also a purchase that involves lots of emotion. To get you started on the right track and help you in deciding on a cremation urn, here are some things to consider.
Nowadays, there are so many options in cremation urns that you should be able to find one that meets your needs. Not only do we have urns made of different materials like marble or wood but you also have lots of different styles and models. When deciding which urn to buy, pick one that instinctually feels right and best reflects the spirit of your lost loved one.
Before you start looking for a cremation urn, you'll first have to decide how it will be used or where it will be located. Where will the ash remains or cremains be stored?Options to consider include:" Displaying a cremation urn inside your home" Displaying a cremation urn in a special area of your garden" Displaying an urn at a cemetery or mausoleum" Burial in a cemetery or other location. With a burial you'll want to consider a biodegradable or "green" ash container." Will the ashes be divided and shared with family or friends? You'll want to look for smaller keepsake urns for each person to possess." Did the deceased wish that their ashes be spread in certain spot? If they preferred a sea burial, then again you may want to consider a "green" container." Would you prefer an urn to be worn as jewelry? These are popular items for pet owners who find having ashes on them gives them comfort.
Once you have decided on what type of cremation urn you would prefer, then it's just a matter of looking for a style that is aesthetically pleasing for you. If the urn will be displayed in your home, you may wish it to fit in with your existing home décor. Some popular cremation urns to choose from include:
" Wooden cremation urns" Silver, marble and bronze urns" Photo and engraved urns" Urn jewelry, urn lockets, urn keychains or necklaces" Pet figurine urns that resemble a specific breed of cat or dog" Green Urns that are made of a material that will degrade into the sea or earth" Companion urns that are specifically designed to hold the remains of a couple
Lastly, you'll need to consider the size of a cremation urn. The industry standard for pet urn sizing is one cubic inch (CI) for every one pound of normal body weight. The cremated remains of a 100 lb. person will yield about 100 CI. The urn must be able to contain about 100 CI. When looking at cremation urns the description or sizing information will be displayed as the CI number or capacity for ashes. When in doubt, go larger in sizing. You don't want to be in the position where your urn is not large enough to contain all the ash remains. I hope this guide to cremation keepsakes helps you make this difficult purchase. In the end any cremation urn should be a source of comfort and fond memories.