Memorial jewelry is a special way to honor and remember loved ones, allowing you to carry a piece of their memory with you every day. Whether it’s a necklace holding ashes, a bracelet engraved with their handwriting, or a ring that incorporates a birthstone, each piece of memorial jewelry serves as a comforting, tangible connection to those we’ve lost. This guide explores the many types of memorial jewelry available, so you can find a piece that best reflects your love and tribute.
1. Ash-Holding Jewelry
Ash-holding jewelry is a meaningful choice for those who wish to keep a part of their loved one physically close. These pieces contain a small compartment or vial that holds a small amount of ashes. Available in designs such as necklaces, bracelets, rings, and even earrings, ash-holding jewelry offers a discreet way to memorialize your loved one.
- Ash-Holding Pendants: Often shaped like hearts, teardrops, or cylinders, ash-holding pendants can be worn daily and are crafted with secure closures to keep ashes safe.
- Ash-Holding Bracelets: These may include a charm or bead that holds ashes, combining beauty with personal meaning in a way that’s subtle and close at hand.
2. Engraved Jewelry
For those who prefer a symbolic tribute, engraved jewelry offers a timeless way to memorialize loved ones. Many pieces allow you to engrave names, dates, or even special messages.
- Engraved Bracelets: These bracelets can feature a name, date, or short message, often on the inside for a personal touch that only you know is there.
- Engraved Necklaces and Pendants: Many pendants can be engraved with special dates, initials, or meaningful phrases, allowing you to keep a part of their story close to your heart.
3. Fingerprint and Handwriting Jewelry
Fingerprint and handwriting jewelry are especially unique, as they capture your loved one’s actual fingerprint or a personal handwritten note. This style of jewelry serves as a deeply personal keepsake, preserving a part of your loved one’s physical presence or their words.
- Fingerprint Pendants: Crafted with a loved one’s fingerprint engraved on a pendant, these necklaces are often available in classic shapes like circles or dog tags.
- Handwriting Bracelets: These bracelets can replicate a message, signature, or phrase in your loved one’s handwriting, offering a constant reminder of their words and voice.
4. Photo Jewelry
For those who cherish visual memories, photo jewelry is a beautiful option. Often crafted as lockets or charms, these pieces hold a small photo of your loved one, creating a comforting visual reminder of their presence.
- Photo Lockets: A timeless option, lockets can hold one or two small photos. Many lockets also allow for an inscription or small compartment for a keepsake.
- Photo Charms: Some bracelets and necklaces feature tiny frames where you can insert a cherished photo. These pieces work well for families who want to keep a loved one’s smile close.
5. Birthstone and Symbolic Jewelry
Birthstone jewelry or symbolic pieces offer a more subtle way to remember a loved one, using colors, stones, or symbols that represent them. These pieces are versatile, fitting easily with any style.
- Birthstone Bracelets and Necklaces: Incorporate your loved one’s birthstone into a charm, pendant, or ring for a personalized touch.
- Symbolic Charms: Consider charms shaped like hearts, stars, or even meaningful objects that reflect your loved one’s personality. For example, a heart symbolizes love, while a star could represent guidance or hope.
6. Cremation Diamonds
Cremation diamonds are a unique way to create a truly lasting tribute. These diamonds are made by transforming ashes or hair into a gemstone, which can then be set into rings, necklaces, or earrings. Though this process can be more involved, cremation diamonds create an heirloom piece that can be cherished for generations.
7. Keepsake Jewelry
Keepsake jewelry holds small mementos, such as a lock of hair, dried flowers from a memorial service, or a piece of fabric. These pieces offer a non-traditional way to carry a tangible memory.
- Keepsake Rings: Rings with small compartments can hold mementos, such as a tiny piece of fabric or pressed flowers.
- Keepsake Necklaces: Some lockets and pendants have enough space for a small memento, giving you a versatile and meaningful option for honoring memories.
Choosing the Right Memorial Jewelry
When choosing memorial jewelry, consider what brings you comfort. If you prefer a visual memory, photo lockets and charms might be ideal. Ash-holding jewelry allows for a physical connection, while engraved or fingerprint pieces preserve a loved one’s presence in a way that’s both symbolic and unique. Think about how you’d like to remember your loved one and select the style that resonates most with your remembrance journey.
Caring for Your Memorial Jewelry
To ensure your memorial jewelry lasts, follow these care tips:
- Avoid Water Exposure: Remove jewelry before swimming or bathing, as water can affect the integrity of certain materials and engravings.
- Regular Polishing: Keep jewelry looking its best by gently polishing with a soft cloth. For silver and gold pieces, avoid harsh cleaners and instead use a jewelry-specific cloth.
- Safe Storage: Store your jewelry in a box or pouch to prevent scratching, especially for softer metals or pieces with mementos inside.
A Guide to Memorial Jewelry: Keeping Loved Ones Close Through Meaningful Keepsakes