A Guide to Keeping Ashes Close — Memorial Jewellery Explained

When someone we love dies, the question of what to do with their ashes can feel overwhelming. There's no single right answer — some families scatter ashes in a meaningful place, others keep them at home, and increasingly, many people choose to carry a small portion with them in memorial jewellery.

This guide explains your options clearly, so you can make a choice that feels right for you.

What are the different types of memorial jewellery?

1. Self-fill urn charms

These contain a small sealed chamber into which you place a pinch of ashes yourself. They're practical, personal, and allow multiple family members to each have their own piece. See our guide: How Self-Fill Urn Charms Work.

2. Resin ashes jewellery

A small amount of ashes is set within resin to create a unique, stone-like centrepiece. Each piece is one-of-a-kind — the texture and colour vary slightly based on the ashes themselves. Our Ashes & Resin Oval Necklace is an elegant example, crafted in 925 sterling silver with a polished finish.

3. Engraved memorial jewellery

For those who prefer a more subtle option, engraved jewellery carries a name, date, or message rather than ashes. It's a beautiful choice for those who find comfort in words.

Is it safe to wear jewellery containing ashes?

Yes. Once properly sealed, urn charm jewellery is completely safe to wear every day. Our pieces are crafted in 925 sterling silver, which is durable, hypoallergenic, and designed for long-term wear. We recommend removing jewellery before swimming in chlorinated water or using harsh cleaning products — the same advice applies to any silver jewellery.

Can more than one person have a piece?

Absolutely — and many families choose to do exactly this. Cremation produces enough ashes that a small pinch can be placed in several charms, meaning a mother, daughter, and sister can each carry a piece of the same person. It's a quiet, shared act of remembrance.

How do I care for my memorial jewellery?

  • Store in a soft pouch or jewellery box away from direct sunlight
  • Clean gently with a silver polishing cloth
  • Avoid contact with perfume, hairspray, or harsh chemicals
  • If your charm is sealed with adhesive, do not attempt to reopen it

Choosing your piece

Browse our Memorial & Ashes Jewellery collection to explore the full range. If you're unsure which style is right for you, you're always welcome to get in touch — we're happy to help you find something meaningful.