A very special set of Memorial Beads I recently designed and constructed for someone who lost a beloved family member.
The main beads are made from Juniper seeds that were gathered from the town (and surrounding area) in which the deceased raised their family and spent the last decades of their life. The sterling silver counter beads were crafted in the town where the deceased was born and raised. The bracket beads are turquoise, which had a special place in the heart of the deceased. On one end of the strand of beads, I secured a vintage sterling silver Hamsa talisman with the Hebrew word for peace inscribed upon it, since the deceased was actively involved in her Jewish faith until the end, as well as being a great advocate and emmissry of peace herself. On the other end is secured an Urn Pendant carved from sterling silver, in which the recipient can carry a bit of the deceased’s ashes.
Pieces like this touch me deeply every time I'm involved in crafting them, and I am always so honored to do so.
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Memorial Jewellery
Hair work jewellery originated in France and England in the 1700’s, evolving from the craft of wig makers. Initially, the jewellery functioned as a mourning memento and was a common funeral gift in the 18th century. Rings, brooches, necklaces, watch fobs, earrings and much more were crafted from the lock of a loved one.
Cool Regency period key pendant, circa 1810. There's a round locket compartment in the centre of the bow, currently home to a tightly woven lock of hair (the Georgians were like that..), and features intricate filigree ropework details along the shank and unusual (but quite lovely) hand-engraved detailing to the bit. As you can probably tell, I just googled "anatomy of a key" and it was somewhat illuminating - I would have only hit on one of those three descriptors. The significance of the key is clear here, not the usual "key to my heart", but rather it's a memorial piece, so the key unlocks a memory of the deceased. Crafted in 15 karat gold, converted from a brooch.
(Source: butterlaneantiques.com)
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Exploring the Meaning Behind Cremation Jewelry
Losing a loved one is never easy, and finding ways to honor and remember them can bring comfort during the grieving process. One way to keep a loved one close is through cremation jewelry. This unique type of jewelry holds a small amount of a loved one's ashes, allowing them to be carried with you wherever you go. But beyond its practical purpose, cremation jewelry also holds a deeper meaning. In this article, we'll explore the significance behind cremation jewelry and the different types available.
What is Cremation Jewelry?
Cremation jewelry, also known as memorial jewelry or remembrance jewelry, is a type of jewelry that holds a small amount of a loved one's ashes. It can come in various forms, such as pendants, rings, bracelets, and even keychains. The ashes are typically placed inside a small compartment within the jewelry, which can be sealed to keep them secure.
The History of Cremation Jewelry
Cremation jewelry has been around for centuries, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Rome. During this time, it was common for people to wear lockets containing a lock of hair or a small amount of ashes from a loved one. In the Victorian era, mourning jewelry became popular, with people wearing pieces made from materials such as jet, onyx, and black enamel to symbolize their grief.
Today, cremation jewelry has evolved to include a wider range of styles and materials, making it a more personal and meaningful way to remember a loved one.
The Meaning Behind Cremation Jewelry
Cremation jewelry holds a special significance for those who wear it. It serves as a physical reminder of a loved one and can bring comfort during times of grief. Here are some of the meanings behind different types of cremation jewelry:
Cremation Jewelry Cross
A cross is a symbol of faith and can hold a special meaning for those who wear it. Cremation jewelry crosses can be a way to honor a loved one's religious beliefs and keep them close to your heart.
Tree of Life Cremation Jewelry
The tree of life is a powerful symbol that represents the interconnectedness of all living things. It can also symbolize growth, strength, and the cycle of life and death. Tree of life cremation jewelry can be a meaningful way to remember a loved one and their place in the world.
Cremation Jewelry with Engravings
Many cremation jewelry pieces can be engraved with a loved one's name, initials, or a special message. This personalization adds an extra layer of meaning to the jewelry and can serve as a reminder of the unique bond shared with the deceased.
Types of Cremation Jewelry
Cremation jewelry comes in a variety of styles and materials, allowing you to choose a piece that best represents your loved one and their personality. Here are some of the most popular types of cremation jewelry:
Pendants
Pendants are the most common type of cremation jewelry. They can come in various shapes and sizes, such as hearts, crosses, and even animals. Pendants can be worn on a chain around the neck or added to a charm bracelet.
Rings
Cremation rings are a beautiful way to remember a loved one. They can be worn on any finger and come in a range of styles, from simple bands to more intricate designs.
Bracelets
Cremation bracelets are a popular choice for those who want to keep their loved one close at all times. They can come in the form of bangles, cuffs, or charm bracelets, and can be worn on the wrist or ankle.
Keychains
For those who prefer a more discreet way to carry their loved one's ashes, cremation keychains are a great option. They can be attached to keys, purses, or backpacks, allowing you to keep your loved one close wherever you go.
Choosing the Right Cremation Jewelry
When choosing cremation jewelry, it's essential to consider the style and material that best represents your loved one. You may also want to think about the type of jewelry they would have liked to wear. Here are some tips to help you choose the right cremation jewelry:
Consider Their Personality
Think about your loved one's personality and interests. Did they have a favorite color or symbol? Did they have a particular style of jewelry they always wore? Choosing a piece that reflects their personality can make it even more meaningful.
Think About the Material
Cremation jewelry can come in a variety of materials, such as gold, silver, and stainless steel. Consider which material best represents your loved one and their style.
Decide on a Style
As mentioned earlier, cremation jewelry comes in various styles, from pendants to rings to keychains. Think about which style would be most meaningful for you and your loved one.
Caring for Cremation Jewelry
Cremation jewelry is a precious and meaningful item, and it's essential to care for it properly. Here are some tips for caring for your cremation jewelry:
Keep it Clean
To keep your cremation jewelry looking its best, clean it regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the jewelry.
Store it Safely
When not wearing your cremation jewelry, store it in a safe place, such as a jewelry box or pouch. This will help protect it from damage and keep it secure.
Avoid Wearing it in Water
To prevent damage, it's best to avoid wearing cremation jewelry in water, such as when swimming or showering. This will help preserve the jewelry and keep it looking its best.
In Conclusion
Cremation jewelry is a beautiful and meaningful way to remember a loved one. It holds a special significance and can bring comfort during times of grief. With a variety of styles and materials to choose from, you can find a piece that best represents your loved one and their unique personality. By caring for your cremation jewelry properly, you can keep it looking beautiful for years to come and continue to honor your loved one's memory.
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In the poignant intersection of art and remembrance, a timeless beauty unfolds through the delicate craft of ash jewellery. Welcome to a realm where grief is transformed into grace, and memories are forged into everlasting masterpieces. Discover the profound allure of crafting timeless beauty in jewellery formed from ashes—a bespoke tribute to love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.
Cremation Jewellery UK: A Heartfelt Remembrance
Within the tranquil landscapes of the United Kingdom, a meaningful trend has emerge —Cremation jewellery. More than mere adornments, these pieces encapsulate the essence of departed loved ones, offering solace to those seeking a tangible connection beyond the realms of time. Each creation is a testament to the artistry of remembrance, a heartfelt tribute that resonates with the depths of human emotion.
The Alchemy of Craftsmanship: Transforming Ashes into Elegance
Crafting timeless beauty from ashes is a meticulous art, where skilled artisans delicately blend a fraction of cremated remains with precision and care. The result is more than just jewellery—it's an exquisite manifestation of eternal elegance. Every piece is a unique composition, blending the tangible remnants of a life lived with the intangible beauty of artistic expression.
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