Guide To Choosing An Urn

Choosing the Perfect Urn: An In-Depth Guide

Selecting an urn for a loved one is a deeply personal and meaningful decision. This guide aims to provide comprehensive insights to help you make an informed choice that honors your loved one's memory with dignity and respect.

 

 1. Selecting the Right Size for Your Loved One

Understanding Volume Requirements:

To choose the right size urn, you need to match its capacity to the volume of ashes. Typically, one cubic inch of space is required for each pound of the deceased’s body weight. For example, if the individual weighed 180 pounds, the urn should hold at least 180 cubic inches of ashes.

Types of Urns Based on Size:

- Extra Large Urns:

  

These are generally for big individuals weights more than 220 pounds prior to cremation. Also Designed for couples or close family members, these larger urns can hold the ashes of two people and often feature separate compartments or a shared space.

- Standard Urns: 

These are the most common and generally hold between 200 to 220 cubic inches. They are suitable for most adults and are designed to accommodate the full volume of ashes.

- Medium/Sharing Urns:

Ideal for small Individuals or children weights up to 150 pounds prior to cremation. Also used to share ashes among family members.

 - Keepsake Urns:

Ideal for those who wish to divide the ashes or keep a small portion, these urns usually hold 3 cubic inches.

 

 2. Choosing the Most Suitable Material

Metal Urns:

Known for its durability and variety of finishes, Metal urns can be polished to a high shine or finished in a matte look. They are often ornate and resistant to corrosion.
Offers a classic, timeless appearance and is extremely durable. Metal urns are a popular choice for their traditional and enduring quality.

Wood Urns:
Wood urns can be crafted to highlight the natural beauty of the wood. Wood urns can range from simple, classic designs to intricate carvings. They may be finished with lacquer or stains to protect the wood and enhance its appearance.

Biodegradable Urns:
Made from materials like paper, salt, or sand, biodegradable urns are designed to decompose naturally over time. They are ideal for green burials or aquatic memorials. These urns allow for a natural return to the earth, aligning with eco-conscious values and environmental sustainability.

Glass Urns:
Glass urns can be stunningly decorative, featuring vibrant colors and intricate patterns. They offer a modern and artistic touch. Glass urns are more fragile compared to other materials and are best suited for indoor use where they can be carefully handled.

 

 3. Honoring Your Loved One with the Perfect Design and Style

Classic Urns:
Classic urns often feature timeless shapes, such as the traditional vase or cylindrical form. They provide a straightforward and elegant option. These urns are typically less ornate, focusing on simplicity and dignity.

Personalized Urns:
- Engraving Options: Personalize the urn with names, dates, or heartfelt messages. Engravings can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased.
- Photographs: Some urns can be customized with a photo of the deceased, offering a more personal and visual tribute.
- Personalized Medallion:  Medallion can be customized with your loved one’s name, dates, a cherished photo, and a personal message. It’s a beautiful way to capture their essence and add a meaningful touch to the memorial.

Themed Urns:
- Cultural or Religious Symbols: Incorporate symbols or motifs significant to the deceased’s cultural or religious background, such as crosses, religious icons, or traditional patterns.

- Interest-Based Designs: Choose urns that reflect the deceased’s interests or passions, such as sports, music, or art. Themed urns can be both personal and expressive. The Heavenly Memorials themes are as follows:

• Beach Themed Urns
• Biker Themed Urns
• Flower Themed Urns
• Cross Themed Urns
• Marble Themed Urns
• Eagle Themed Urns
• Veteran Themed Urns
• Wolf Themed Urns
• Hummingbird Themed Urns
• Cardinal Themed Urns
• Dolphin Themed Urns
• Butterfly Themed Urns
• Golf  Themed Urns
• And so on...

 4. Thoughtfully Considering Display and Storage Options

Home Display:
Choose an urn that complements your home’s décor. Consider the style and size of the urn to ensure it fits well with the intended display area, such as a mantel, shelf, or special memorial space. The urn should be placed in a respectful and visible location, reflecting its significance as a memorial.

Columbarium Niches:
Verify that the urn fits the dimensions and design specifications of the columbarium niche. Some columbarium offer customization options for plaques or decorative elements.

Outdoor Settings:
For urns intended for outdoor use, select materials that are resistant to weather and environmental conditions. Metal urns or certain biodegradable urns are suitable for this purpose. Ensure the urn is adequately protected if it will be exposed to the elements.


By following this detailed guide, you can thoughtfully select an urn that honors your loved one’s memory and suits your personal and practical needs.