How Memorial Jewellery Is Made

Memorial jewellery is one of the most personal forms of jewellery. It can hold ashes, hair, fur, a birthstone or another meaningful detail, creating a keepsake that helps you feel close to someone you love.

At Cherish Forever, we create ashes jewellery, cremation jewellery and keepsake jewellery with care, respect and attention to detail. This guide explains how memorial jewellery is made, from choosing the design to the final polish.

1. Choosing the right design

The process begins with choosing the style of jewellery. Some people prefer a ring, while others choose a pendant, earrings or locket. Rings are popular because they can be worn every day, while pendants sit close to the heart.

You can explore our rings collection, Tribute Rings, or wider memorial jewellery collection to compare options.

2. Deciding whether the ashes are visible or hidden

Some pieces are designed to show the ashes within resin. These are often chosen by people who want the memorial element to be visible and part of the design. Our resin rings with ashes are a good place to explore this style.

Other designs keep ashes hidden inside the jewellery. Our hidden ashes rings are made for people who prefer a private tribute that looks like classic jewellery from the outside.

3. Preparing the ashes or keepsake material

Only a small amount of ashes is normally required. The ashes are handled carefully and respectfully throughout the process. Depending on the design, they may be placed into resin, sealed inside the shank of a ring, or protected beneath a stone.

For more information, read our Our Process and Ordering Process pages.

4. Setting ashes in resin

For visible ashes jewellery, resin is used to secure and protect the ashes. Colour can often be added to create a soft, bold or birthstone-inspired finish. Because the ashes and resin combine naturally, each piece is unique.

The Simple Sterling Silver Ashes Ring with Resin Channel is an example of a design where the ashes form part of the visible setting.

5. Creating hidden ashes rings

Hidden ashes rings are made so the memorial detail is sealed privately inside the ring. This option is ideal if you want ashes jewellery that feels subtle, wearable and discreet.

The Wedding-Style D-Shape Hidden Ashes Ring and Wedding-Style Flat Hidden Ashes Ring are examples of this style.

6. Ashes behind stones

Some memorial jewellery is designed with ashes sealed beneath a stone. This creates a traditional jewellery look while keeping the ashes protected and discreet. Our Ashes Behind Stones Collection includes designs made for this purpose.

The Victorian-Style Ashes Behind Stone Ring is a good example of this approach.

7. Finishing, polishing and quality checks

Once the memorial detail is secured, the jewellery is finished, polished and checked. The goal is to create a piece that feels meaningful but also durable and comfortable enough to wear.

Precious metal jewellery may be hallmarked where applicable, and selected premium designs can include GIA-certified diamonds. You can compare materials on our Metal Types & Prices page.

Frequently asked questions

How much ashes are needed?

Only a small amount is normally needed. Clear instructions are provided as part of the ordering process.

Can pet ashes be used?

Yes. Pet ashes can be used in many memorial jewellery designs, including rings and pendants.

Are ashes visible in the jewellery?

They can be visible in resin designs or hidden inside the jewellery depending on the style chosen.

Can ashes be placed behind a stone?

Yes. Some designs are made with ashes sealed beneath a stone for a discreet and traditional look.

How should memorial jewellery be cared for?

Avoid swimming, showering, harsh chemicals and heavy manual work while wearing your jewellery. Store it safely when not in use.

A meaningful piece made with care

Memorial jewellery is more than a product. It is a lasting reminder of someone special. To choose a design, browse our memorial jewellery collection, compare hidden ashes rings, or visit our FAQ for more guidance.