Cremation jewelry and keepsake urns let family members keep a small portion of a loved one’s remains close. This guide covers the types available, the materials, how the pieces are filled and sealed, and what to check before buying.
Types of cremation jewelry
- Urn pendants and necklaces: the most common type, with a small chamber usually closed by a tiny threaded screw.
- Bracelets: a chamber built into a charm, bead, or bar.
- Rings: a discreet chamber in the band or setting.
- Glass or resin pieces: a small amount of remains is set permanently into the glass or resin by a specialist maker.
Materials
Stainless steel resists tarnish and suits everyday wear. Sterling silver can tarnish and needs occasional polishing. Gold-plated pieces may wear with time. If you have metal allergies, check the exact alloy.
Filling and sealing
These pieces hold only a pinch of remains. Most include a small funnel and filling tool. Work over a tray or a sheet of paper, fill slowly, and use a jewelry-safe adhesive on the screw threads for a permanent seal. Some funeral homes will fill jewelry for you. Ask yours.
Cremation urn necklace
- Common materials
- Stainless steel, sterling silver, or gold-plated metal
- Capacity
- A tiny amount, usually a pinch
- Good for
- Keeping a small portion of remains close
- Before you buy
- Look for a threaded, sealable screw. Stainless steel resists tarnish.
Cremation bracelet
- Common materials
- Stainless steel, leather, or beads with a chamber
- Capacity
- A tiny amount
- Good for
- An everyday wearable memorial
- Before you buy
- Check the wrist size and how the chamber seals.
Cremation ring
- Common materials
- Stainless steel, tungsten, or silver with a chamber
- Capacity
- A tiny amount
- Good for
- A discreet memorial worn daily
- Before you buy
- Confirm the ring size. The chamber is usually filled through a small screw.
Fill kit and sealant
- Common materials
- Funnel, scoop, and adhesive
- Good for
- Filling jewelry and keepsakes safely
- Before you buy
- Many jewelry pieces include a kit. Buy one separately if yours does not.
Keepsake urns
Keepsake urns are small urns, often a few cubic inches, that let several people each keep a portion. They’re often bought as a set to go with a main urn or a scattering. Check the listed capacity, and plan where the rest of the remains will go.
Before you buy
- Is the chamber sealed with threads, and is adhesive included or recommended?
- Is the piece suitable for daily wear, showering, or swimming?
- Does the chain or band size fit the wearer?
- Is engraving available, and what does it cost?
Related
- How to choose a cremation urn
- Unique ways to memorialize someone who is cremated
- Memorial products hub
Reviewed September 30, 2026.