Cremation ashes jewellery — sometimes called memorial ashes jewellery or keepsake jewellery — is one of the most personal and meaningful ways to honour a loved one after they have passed. It allows you to keep a small part of them with you, always, in a form that is beautiful, wearable, and deeply comforting.
If you are considering this type of memorial jewellery for the first time, you may have questions. This guide is here to answer them, gently and honestly.
What Is Cremation Ashes Jewellery?
Cremation ashes jewellery is jewellery that incorporates a small amount of a loved one’s cremated remains — or ashes — into the piece itself. This can be done in several ways, depending on the style of jewellery:
- Hollow compartment pieces — pendants, lockets, or rings with a small sealed chamber that holds a tiny pinch of ashes. The ashes are enclosed within the jewellery and not visible from the outside.
- Infused or fused glass pieces — ashes are incorporated into glass or resin to create a unique, one-of-a-kind stone or bead within the jewellery.
- Pressed or set pieces — ashes are compressed or set into the jewellery in a way that becomes part of the design itself.
At Forget Me Not By Emma, our memorial jewellery collection includes pieces designed to hold ashes discreetly and beautifully — crafted in 925 sterling silver and stainless steel, with the care and quality that such a precious keepsake deserves.
How Much Ash Is Needed?
One of the most common questions we receive is: how much ash do I need? The answer is reassuringly small. Most memorial jewellery pieces require only a tiny pinch of ash — typically less than a teaspoon, and often far less. This means you can create multiple pieces from a single set of remains, allowing different family members to each have their own keepsake.
The ashes of a pet can also be used in the same way, making cremation jewellery a meaningful option for those who have lost an animal companion. Visit our Pets collection for pieces suited to pet memorials.
Is It Safe to Wear?
Yes. Cremated remains are sterile and safe to handle and wear. Once sealed within a piece of jewellery, they are fully enclosed and there is no risk to the wearer. Our pieces are crafted to the highest standards to ensure the chamber or setting is secure and durable for everyday wear.
Which Style of Jewellery Works Best for Ashes?
Several styles lend themselves beautifully to holding or incorporating ashes. Here is a guide to the most popular options:
Pendants
A memorial pendant is the most popular choice for ashes jewellery. Worn close to the heart on a chain, a pendant with a small sealed compartment is discreet, elegant, and deeply personal. It is a piece you can wear every day without drawing attention, yet one that holds immeasurable meaning.
Browse our Pendants collection →
Rings
A memorial ring can be designed with a small hollow setting to hold a pinch of ashes. Worn on the finger, it is a constant, tactile reminder of the person you have lost — a circle of love that never ends.
Bracelets & Bangles
Some bracelets and bangles feature small sealed compartments or charms that can hold ashes. Worn on the wrist, they offer a gentle, comforting presence throughout the day.
Browse our Bracelets & Bangles collection →
Charms
A memorial charm is a versatile option — it can be added to an existing bracelet or necklace, allowing you to incorporate a keepsake into jewellery you already love and wear.
Browse our Charms collection →
Choosing Your Metal
The metal you choose for your ashes jewellery matters, particularly as it is likely to be worn regularly and treasured for many years.
- 925 Sterling Silver — timeless and elegant, sterling silver is a classic choice for memorial jewellery. It is hypoallergenic and beautiful for everyday wear.
- Stainless Steel — exceptionally durable and resistant to tarnishing, stainless steel is ideal if you plan to wear your piece every day without removing it. Browse Stainless Steel →
- Gold-toned finishes — warm and luminous, a gold finish adds a sense of occasion and warmth to a memorial piece. Browse Gold →
Memorial Jewellery for Him
Cremation ashes jewellery is not only for women. Our For Him collection features understated, masculine designs that are equally suited to holding ashes — clean lines and darker finishes that can be worn with quiet confidence every day.
Caring for Your Ashes Jewellery
Because your memorial piece holds something irreplaceable, caring for it properly is important:
- Store it in a soft pouch or jewellery box when not wearing it.
- Remove before swimming, bathing, or applying perfume or lotions.
- Check the seal or closure regularly to ensure it remains secure.
- Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth — avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
- If your piece is sterling silver, a silver polishing cloth will keep it looking its best.
A Final Thought
Cremation ashes jewellery is not for everyone, and that is perfectly fine. What matters most is finding a way to remember your loved one that feels right for you. Whether that is a pendant holding a tiny pinch of ashes, a ring worn in their memory, or simply a beautiful piece of keepsake jewellery that reminds you of them — the most important thing is that it brings you comfort.
If you have any questions about our memorial jewellery, or if you would like guidance on choosing the right piece, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We are always here to help.
Shop Memorial Jewellery at Forget Me Not By Emma →
With love, Emma x