Which memorial style is right for you?

Cremation jewelry has become a deeply meaningful way for families across Canada to keep a loved one close. Whether you are remembering a parent, partner, child, or beloved pet, memorial jewelry offers a personal and wearable tribute that can bring comfort every day.

Two of the most popular styles are:

• Ashes-infused glass pendants
• Pendants with a sealed chamber for ashes

Both hold cremated remains — but they do so in very different ways. Understanding the difference can help you choose the piece that best reflects your connection and your personal style.

What Is Cremation Jewelry?

Cremation jewelry is designed to hold a small portion of cremated remains in a wearable form — typically a pendant, ring, or bracelet. Most pieces hold only a tiny (often symbolic) amount of ashes, allowing multiple family members to share remembrance keepsakes. 

Many Canadians choose cremation jewelry because it:

✔ Keeps a loved one physically close
✔ Provides comfort during grief
✔ Offers a private, personal memorial
✔ Can be shared among family members

Option 1: Ashes-Infused Glass Pendants

Ash-infused glass jewelry is created by permanently blending cremated remains into molten glass during the artistic process. The ashes become part of the design itself — visible or subtly suspended inside the glass.

How it’s made

A small amount of cremated remains is carefully incorporated into hot Italian glass during flame-working. Once cooled, the ashes are permanently sealed within the material. 

Each piece becomes completely unique — no two are ever identical.

Why families choose glass pendants

Many people are drawn to the artistic and symbolic nature of this style.

Benefits

• The ashes are permanently fused into the jewelry
• No opening or maintenance required
• Often colourful and highly personalized
• Every piece is one-of-a-kind
• Feels more like wearable art than an urn
• You are supporting a Canadian Artisan

Each piece generally requires about 1/4 teaspoons of ashes and any unused ashes are returned to the family. 

Things to consider

• Ashes cannot be removed later
• The process requires sending ashes to the artist
• Usually takes longer to create (custom work)

This style is ideal if you want a permanent, artistic memorial that symbolizes transformation and continuity.

Option 2: Pendants with Chambers (Urn Pendants)

Chamber pendants — often called urn necklaces — contain a small hollow compartment where ashes are placed inside the jewelry.

How they work

A tiny screw or threaded closure allows ashes to be placed inside the pendant. The compartment is sealed securely to keep the remains protected. 

Some pieces come with miniature funnels or tools for filling, and many families choose to have funeral professionals assist.

Why families choose chamber pendants

This is the most traditional and widely recognized form of cremation jewelry.

Benefits

• Ashes are physically stored inside the piece
• Can be opened if needed (unless permanently sealed)
• Available in many classic shapes — hearts, crosses, lockets
• Often more affordable than artisan glass
• Easy to share among multiple family members
• Available in a wide range of prices suitable for all budgets

Disclaimer – Many chamber pendants hold only a trace amount of remains — sometimes no more than a few grains. 

Things to consider

• Requires careful filling and sealing
• Not always waterproof unless sealed properly
• Ashes are hidden rather than visible
• Slight risk of loosening if not secured correctly

This style is ideal if you are looking for affordable jewelry options or want a traditional keepsake that physically holds the ashes inside.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Ashes-Infused Glass	Chamber Pendant
How ashes are held	Permanently fused into glass	Stored in sealed compartment
Can ashes be removed	No	Yes (unless sealed)
Appearance	Artistic, colorful, unique	Classic, traditional
Maintenance	None	May require sealing or checking
Emotional symbolism	Transformation, permanence	Protection, closeness
Customization	High (colors, shapes)	Moderate (style, engraving)

Which One Is Right for You?

There is no “better” option — only what feels meaningful to you.

Choose glass-infused jewelry if you want:

• A one-of-a-kind artistic memorial
• Permanently preserved ashes
• A symbolic transformation into something beautiful

Choose chamber jewelry if you want:

• A traditional urn-style keepsake
• Physical possession of the ashes
• The ability to access or transfer them

Some families even choose both — a glass pendant for daily wear and a chamber piece for ceremonial or sentimental use.

A Personal Decision That Lasts a Lifetime

Cremation jewelry is more than an accessory — it’s a deeply personal form of remembrance. Whether you prefer ashes gently suspended in glowing glass or safely held within a small chamber, the purpose is the same:

To keep love close.
To carry memory forward.
To honour a life that still matters.

If you’re exploring cremation jewelry in Canada, take time to consider what feels most comforting and meaningful. The right piece is the one that helps you feel connected — every single day.