Complete guide to selecting cremation urns for ashes

Complete guide to selecting cremation urns for ashes

What is a cremation urn for ashes?

An urn or keepsake urn is a vessel that is used to hold the ashes of a cremated person or pet. There are many different types of urns available, and the size, color, and capacity can vary depending on the manufacturer. Urns can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, ceramic, metal, wood, and stone. Some urns are designed to be displayed in the home, while others are meant to be buried or stored in a columbarium. When choosing an urn, it is important to consider both the aesthetic and practical considerations. The urn should be large enough to hold all of the ashes, and it should be made from a durable material that can withstand the elements. In addition, many people choose an urn that reflects the personality of their loved ones. Urns come in a wide range of styles, so it is possible to find one that is both beautiful and practical.

 

A collection of diamond cut aluminum urns in four different colours by Reverie Memorials

What do they look like?

Cremation urns come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. While some are designed to be displayed in the home, others are meant to be buried or scattered. Urns can be made from a number of materials, including metal, wood, glass, or ceramic. Many urns are decorated with images or symbols that reflect the life of the deceased. For example, a fishing urn might be adorned with fish or other aquatic imagery, while a nature urn might feature leaves, flowers, or birds. Ultimately, the design of an urn is a matter of personal preference, and there are many options available to suit any taste.

How to use a cremation urn? Who uses cremation urns?

A cremation urn can be used by anyone who wants to keep the ashes of a family member, friend, or loved one. Cremation urns can be placed in a special location in the home, such as on a mantel or in a study, or they can be buried in a cemetery. Some people choose to scatter the ashes in a place that was significant to the person who died, such as a favorite hiking spot or beach. Others may choose to keep the urn on display as a way to honor the memory of the deceased. No matter how it is used, an urn can provide comfort and peace of mind to those who have lost someone they love.

Urn types

Cremation urns come in a wide variety of styles and designs, each with its own unique features.

Individual Urns

Individual urns are designed to hold the ashes of a single person, they are usually made to hold 200lb of ashes (can hold ashes of adults weighing up to 200lbs). Individual urns come in a variety of materials such as brass and aluminum, sizes, and shapes. They are more suitable for families who want one urn. There are companion urns also available in the market and come in a pair.

A ocean blue color aluminum large adult urn by Reverie Memorials

Keepsake Urn

Keepsake cremation urns are smaller-sized urns that can be used to hold a portion of the ashes, as well as personal mementos. Keepsake urns are a popular choice for families who want to divide up the remains of a loved one, or for those who want to keep a small portion of the ashes as a memento. Keepsake urns are made of different materials such as brass and aluminum and can be adorned with imagery and etching handwork.

Image showing mini keepsakes urn made of aluminum by Reverie Memorials

Biodegradable urn

Eco-friendly urns are made from sustainable materials such as bamboo or wood and are often biodegradable (made from biodegradable materials). These urns are buried in the ground and they disintegrate with time. These urns are often known as burial urns as well.

Urn vault

An urn vault is a type of burial chamber that is designed to protect urns from the elements. Urns are often placed in vaults prior to cremation, and they can also be used to store the ashes of loved ones who have been cremated. Urns are typically made of ceramic or stone, and they are often decorated with a religious or cultural motif. Vaults can be made of concrete, brick, or stone, and they are typically buried underground. The urn is placed in the center of the vault, and the vault is then sealed. Vaults can be purchased from funeral homes or crematoriums, or they can be custom-made.

Wooden Urn

A wooden urn is a traditional container for storing the ashes of the deceased. Typically made from hardwoods such as oak or maple, wooden urns are durable and long-lasting. Some wood urns are even designed to be buried underground. Wooden urns can be decorated with carving, inlays, or other ornamental details. They can also be stained or painted to match the décor of your home. Whether you choose a simple or elaborate design, these type of urns are a beautiful way to commemorate a loved one.

Glass Urn

A glass urn is a type of container typically used to hold the cremated remains of a human or animal. Unlike traditional metal urns, which are often decorated with engraved designs, these urns are usually clear or translucent. This allows for the urn to be used as a vessel, in which the ashes are visible. They are available in a wide range of sizes and styles, and can be personalized with engravings or other decorative elements. While many of these urns are designed for burial, others are intended for display in the home. In either case, glass urns provide a unique way to honor the memory of a loved one.

Child urn or infant cremation urns

Child urns are smaller in size and may feature playful designs or colors. These urns can be used to hold the ashes of an infant or a young child. It is a way to remember the loss of a baby through a miscarriage or a stillborn.

 

A small urn with foot imprints is kept in a velvet case by Reverie Memorials

Pet Urns

Pet urns are specially designed to hold the ashes of beloved pets such as cats, dogs, rabbits, and more. They can come in various sizes and shapes.

 

Pet urns in different sizes by Reverie Memorials

Whatever the need, there is sure to be a cremation urn that is perfect for any individual.

What are the materials used to make urns?

Urns come in a wide variety of sizes and styles, but they are all made from durable materials that can withstand the elements. The most common materials used to make urns are metal, wood, and ceramic.

Metal urns, which include both aluminum and brass urns, are some of the most popular options because they are both durable and affordable. Some urns are made by using a combination of aluminum and brass (such as the body can be of aluminum and the lid/cap can be of brass).

 

Brass urn with handwork by Reverie Memorials

Wood urns offer a more natural look, while ceramic urns can be glazed or painted to create a unique appearance. Stone and marble urns are also available, but they tend to be more expensive than other options and also quite heavy which makes them hard to carry from one place to another. Ultimately, the material you choose for an urn should be based on your personal preferences and budget.

How to select the size and ascertain urn capacity?

Cremation urns come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the ashes of both large and small individuals. The size of the urn is dictated by the capacity, which is measured in cubic inches or liters.

A large urn typically has a capacity of 200 cubic inches or more, while a small urn generally has a capacity of 60 cubic inches or less. Medium urns fall somewhere in between, with a capacity of around 120 cubic inches. It is important to note that one pound of ashes generally occupies one cubic inch, so a 200-pound individual will require a cremation urn with a capacity of at least 200 cubic inches.

 

Wings design on an adult cremation urn

When choosing an urn, it is important to consider not only the size but also the style and material. Urns are available in a wide range of colors, designs, and materials, from traditional wood to modern metal. There are also many different ways to personalize an urn, so it is important to choose one that reflects the personality and interests of the deceased. A lot of companies will often have urns in different designs, check here to explore a range of such urns.

Design and style of the urn

The urn is a timeless symbol of love and loss. For centuries, families have used urns to memorialize their loved ones. Today, there is a wide variety of urns available to suit every taste and budget. They can be simple and elegant or ornate and intricate. There is an urn to suit every taste.

Different types of urns available by Reverie Memorials

In addition to material, urns also come in a variety of sizes. Some are large enough to hold the ashes of multiple people, while others are designed for a single person. And because urns are available in such a wide range of prices, they are affordable for everyone. No matter what your budget, you can find an urn that is perfect for your needs. When choosing an urn, it is important to consider both the design and the size. With so many options available, you are sure to find an urn that is perfect for your loved one.

Price

Prices vary depending on a number of factors, including the quality of the product, the materials used, and the brand. In general, high-quality products tend to be more expensive than low-quality ones. This is because better materials and craftsmanship result in a better product that will last longer.

It is crucial to note since most urns are handmade the cost of them is significantly high and no two urns are identical. The brand also plays a role in the price and at times can command a premium. Luxury brands typically charge more for their products than generics because consumers are willing to pay for the status and prestige that comes with the name. When it comes to making a purchase, it's important to consider all of these factors to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

Conclusion

Urns can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, ceramic, metal, wood, and stone. Some urns are designed to be displayed in the home, while others are meant to be buried or stored in a columbarium. The cremated ashes are stored in the urn in a plastic bag to ensure they are stored properly over a long period of time.

There are a variety of cremation urns available right from very basic designs (traditional urns) to thematic ones for example on nature, fishing, veteran, etc. You can choose urns on the basis of materials such as brass, aluminum, or glass, and also on the basis of size and the capacity they have. Whatever the need, there is sure to be a cremation urn that is perfect for any individual.

To explore a wide variety of urns and keepsake urns, view the catalog here.

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