Cremation jewelry requires only a very small amount of cremated remains. In most glass memorial pieces, only a small pinch of ash is actually incorporated into the finished design.
However, the amount you are asked to send may be slightly larger than the amount used. At Locked in Art, we request approximately one teaspoon of cremation ash. We use only what is needed to create your memorial and carefully return all unused ashes with your completed piece.
Understanding the difference between the amount sent and the amount used can make the process feel a little less uncertain.
Still deciding which type of memorial jewelry is right for you? Read our guide to glass, resin, urn necklaces, and memorial diamonds.
How Much Ash Is Actually Used in Cremation Jewelry?
The amount of ash used depends on the type of cremation jewelry being created.
- Glass cremation jewelry: Usually only a small pinch is incorporated into the glass.
- Resin memorial jewelry: The amount varies depending on the artist, mold, and design.
- Urn necklaces: Hold a small amount inside a hollow chamber.
- Memorial diamonds: Created through a specialized process using carbon from cremated remains or hair.
For our handmade glass cremation jewelry, only a small portion of the ashes you send becomes part of the finished glass. The precise amount may vary slightly depending on the size and design of the piece.
Unlike hollow urn jewelry, the ashes in our memorials are permanently enclosed within the glass itself. You can learn more about the differences in our guide to the main types of cremation jewelry.
Why Does Locked in Art Request Approximately One Teaspoon?
Cremated remains naturally vary in texture, color, and particle size. Some portions may be very fine, while others may contain larger or more visible fragments.
Requesting approximately one teaspoon gives us enough material to carefully create your memorial without asking you to sort through the ashes or select particular pieces yourself.
We use only what is needed for the design. The remaining ashes stay securely contained, clearly identified, and separated from every other order throughout the process.
Will All of the Ashes Be Used?
No. Only a small amount is incorporated into the glass.
All cremated remains that are not used are carefully returned with your completed memorial. Nothing is discarded.
During the glassmaking process, we may also form small glass remnants that contain traces of the ashes. These are returned as well so they can be placed back with the remaining cremated remains.
Every order is handled individually from the time it reaches our studio until the completed memorial and unused ashes are returned.
For more answers about how ashes are handled, visit our cremation jewelry FAQ.
What Do Ashes Look Like Inside Glass Jewelry?
Cremated remains often appear as pale white, cream, gray, or softly speckled details within the glass. Some ashes may appear darker or develop subtle color variations during the glassmaking process
Their finished appearance can be affected by:
- The natural color and texture of the ashes
- The glass color you select
- The size and shape of the memorial
- The placement of the ashes during creation
- Small bubbles that naturally form around the ash
Lighter and more transparent glass colors may allow the ashes to blend softly into the design. Darker or contrasting colors can make the pale flecks easier to see. Patterned or opaque colors may create a more subtle appearance.
Because every set of cremated remains is different and every piece is individually made by hand, no two memorials will look exactly alike.
You can explore the available shades and patterns in our memorial glass color gallery.
Can One Teaspoon Be Used for More Than One Piece?
Yes.
Because only a small amount of ash is incorporated into each piece, approximately one teaspoon will be enough to create more than one memorial. This can be especially meaningful when siblings, children, spouses, or other family members would each like a piece to remember the same loved one.
Families may choose several matching memorials or select different designs, such as:
- Cremation necklaces
- Memorial beads
- Cremation bracelets
- Glass cremation earrings
- Memorial rings
- Cremation marbles and stones
The total amount needed will depend on the number, size, and style of the memorials ordered. We include guidance with your collection kit, and you are always welcome to contact our studio before ordering several pieces.
What If I Only Have a Very Small Amount of Ash?
A memorial may still be possible even if you have less than one teaspoon available.
Only a small pinch is incorporated into most glass memorials. If the amount you have is extremely limited, please contact us before ordering. Let us know which design you are considering and approximately how much ash is available so we can help determine whether it should be sufficient.
When only a very small quantity remains, do not send all of it without first discussing the order with the memorial artist.
Can Human and Pet Ashes Both Be Used?
Yes. Our glass cremation jewelry can be created with either human or pet cremated remains.
The general process is the same, although the texture, particle size, and appearance of the ashes naturally vary. We create memorials for people as well as dogs, cats, horses, birds, and other beloved animal companions.
For pet-specific designs and guidance, visit our pet cremation memorial jewelry page.
Can Ashes From More Than One Loved One Be Combined?
Yes. Ashes from two or more people or pets can be combined within one memorial.
Once incorporated into the glass, ashes from different loved ones or pets cannot be visually distinguished from one another. Please let us know before we send your ash collection kit if you would like to combine more than one set of ashes. We will provide a separate, clearly labeled vial for each loved one or pet.
For a more involved request, contact our studio before returning the kit so we can confirm the best way to prepare and label everything.
How Do You Send Ashes for Cremation Jewelry?
When you order cremation jewelry from Locked in Art, we send you a specially prepared ash collection kit.
The process is simple:
- Place your memorial jewelry order.
- We mail your ash collection kit within two business days.
- Follow the enclosed instructions and use the provided scoop and container.
- Return the kit using the included prepaid USPS return label.
- We personally let you know when your kit arrives safely at our Arizona studio.
- Your memorial is carefully created by hand.
- The completed piece and all unused ashes are securely returned to you.
Our standard production timeline begins after the returned ash kit arrives safely at our studio.
For current turnaround times and complete delivery information, visit our Shipping and Timing page.
How Are Ashes Incorporated Into Glass Cremation Jewelry?
A small amount of cremation ash is carefully introduced while the borosilicate glass is molten. As the glass is shaped, the ashes become enclosed within the glass rather than placed inside a hollow chamber.
The piece is then carefully cooled through an annealing process that helps strengthen the finished glass and relieve internal stress.
Once completed, the ashes are permanently sealed inside. They cannot spill, leak, or require refilling.
Can Cremation Glass Jewelry Get Wet?
Yes. The ashes are permanently enclosed within the glass and will not be affected by water.
The glass can be gently cleaned using mild soap and warm water. Sterling silver and gold components should be cared for like other fine jewelry. We recommend avoiding harsh chemicals and removing the piece during activities that could cause impact or damage.
Although borosilicate glass is strong and durable, it is still glass and should be treated with care.
Additional care and repair information is available in our cremation jewelry FAQ.
How Much Ash Should I Send to Locked in Art?
Please send approximately one teaspoon unless the instructions included with your order specify otherwise.
Please send approximately one teaspoon unless the instructions included with your order specify otherwise. We use only what is needed, carefully identify and separate every order, and return all unused ashes—including any small glass remnants containing traces of ash—with your completed memorial.Sending someone’s ashes to an artist is an enormous act of trust. Our goal is to make every step clear, respectful, and as reassuring as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is one teaspoon enough for cremation jewelry?
Approximately one teaspoon is generally enough for a single glass memorial and may be enough for several pieces. Larger family orders may require a little more.
How much ash goes into a cremation necklace?
Only a small pinch is typically incorporated into a glass cremation necklace, although the artist may ask you to send a slightly larger amount to safely create the piece.
Do I get the unused ashes back?
Yes. At Locked in Art, all unused cremated remains are carefully returned with the completed memorial. We also return any small glass remnants created during the process that contain traces of ash.
Are the ashes visible in glass cremation jewelry?
Yes. The ashes commonly appear as white, cream, or gray flecks suspended within the glass. Their visibility varies depending on the natural ashes, glass color, pattern, and design.
Can pet ashes be used in cremation jewelry?
Yes. We create glass cremation jewelry using ashes from people and pets.
Can several family members have jewelry made from the same ashes?
Yes. Because each piece requires only a small amount, several memorials can often be created for different family members.
Can ashes from two people or pets be combined?
Yes. Multiple sets of cremated remains may be combined within one memorial. They cannot be distinguished separately after they are incorporated into the glass.
What if I have less than one teaspoon?
A memorial may still be possible because only a small pinch is used in most pieces. Contact our studio before sending an extremely limited amount so we can discuss the design you are considering.
A Small Amount With Lasting Meaning
The amount of ash needed is small, but the meaning held within the finished memorial can be immeasurable.
Whether you choose a necklace, bead, ring, bracelet, pair of earrings, marble, or Memory Stone, each piece is individually handcrafted in our Arizona studio using borosilicate glass and a small amount of your loved one’s or pet’s ashes.
Explore all handmade glass cremation jewelry or learn more about how the ash kit and memorial process work.
