Choosing a memorial keepsake jewelry is not an easy task. The matter here goes much beyond selecting a stylish necklace, ring, or bracelet. It is about finding something that symbolizes a special bond and helps keep the memories alive. While many people focus on appearance when choosing a piece of keepsake jewelry, there are certain nuances that can be considered as well.
When comparing cremation keepsakes, it may be useful to pay attention to things other than appearance. The type of metal, stone mounting, finishing, customization, and daily wearing experience should not be overlooked when trying to find a good piece of jewelry for family members.
Material Selection Sets the Foundation for Quality
TThe material used in the making of memorial jewelry will have an impact on the appearance, durability, maintenance, and value of the jewelry. The common materials used are sterling silver, gold-filled metals, and solid gold.
Sterling silver provides an elegant look and can be used in either classical or contemporary styles. Gold-filled metals are the other alternative that one can use if he or she wants gold, but there is solid gold in various forms.
One should note the following:
- Sterling silver: Versatile and gives a shiny, traditional look which requires regular cleaning.
- Gold-filled jewelry: Has gold look and a thicker layer of gold as compared to gold-plated jewelry.
- Solid gold: Comes in various carats and colors.
It all boils down to what the client prefers. Petals and Keepsakes has sterling silver, gold-filled jewelry, and solid gold to choose from so that the client may compare the metals.
Stone Setting and Ash Placement Matter
One of the most notable things about cremation jewelry with ashes is how they incorporate personal inclusions into the finished product. The stone serves as the focal point of the jewelry, which means that much thought needs to be put into it.
There are designs that have oval stones, round stones, tear-drop shaped stones, or marquise stones. All of these will produce a different look to the jewelry. The oval stone produces a very elegant look while the teardrop-shaped stone may produce a more decorative one.
The way that the setting is done is another aspect that should be looked at. For instance, you may find the bezel-style appearance, which makes the jewelry neat and gives it a clean profile, or the halo setting, which is more decorative.
In addition, the way that the ashes are used is another aspect to consider when choosing a particular memorial jewelry. There are various ways that memorial jewelry uses ashes including memorial stones or hollow compartments.
Small Craftsmanship Details Make a Visible Difference
It is worth noting that sometimes good craftsmanship is difficult to notice right away. Many times, it is the subtle touches that help differentiate between a nicely crafted piece and just an accessory.
Consider the following aspects when assessing your memorial jewelry:
- Rounded edges: The edges of a pendant as well as the surface of the rings should be pleasant to the touch.
- Good setting: The gemstone at the center should be securely set in the setting.
- Proper proportions: The decorations should fit well the size of the jewelry piece.
- Uniform finish: The surfaces of the metal should be smooth without any rough spots.
- Durable connections: The clasps, links, etc., should be appropriate for everyday wear.
This is particularly true because memorial jewelry usually has special significance to people other than its appearance.
Comfort Should Never Be an Afterthought
An attractive design might appear beautiful in pictures; however, comfort is what you need to pay attention to if you are going to wear your jewel on an ongoing basis. The weight of a pendant, the length of a chain, the width of a ring, as well as its dimensions, can make a difference.
As far as necklaces go, you need to decide whether the size of a pendant and chain length match your clothing style. Small pendants may fit for an everyday style, while large pendants will definitely stand out.
In the case of rings, proper sizing is essential as a poorly sized ring can become either uncomfortable (when it is too small) or constantly slip off (when it is too big).
The same goes for bracelets, which require the same considerations regarding their size, closure, and weight.
Personalization Gives Every Keepsake Its Meaning
Personalization is probably one of the main advantages of memorial jewelry. The same design can have very different characteristics due to the variety of materials and colors utilized.
There are many materials that can be included into memorial jewelry: from ashes of the deceased to their hair and clothes. There are many options to choose and they are all dependent on the design.
The choice of color is another element that has to be considered when choosing memorial jewelry. Someone may like simple white stone, and someone else may prefer other color that is close to his/her heart.
For instance, there are various colors offered by Petals and Keepsakes for their products. Thus, the client has an opportunity to choose the detail that represents the person or event that is remembered.
Durability Depends on Both Materials and Care
Often, people select their memorial jewelry to be worn for a long period of time; thus, durability becomes one of the essential factors to be considered when choosing such jewelry.
However, any jewelry made of good quality materials should still be taken care of properly. Thus, it is essential to know how to take care of the chosen metal and gemstone.
The user must also pay attention to the manufacturer’s recommendations on care and storing the jewelry. It is important not to let the delicate setting of the stones get into contact with chemical substances, abrasive cleaners, or physical damage.
For instance, Petals and Keepsakes advises its clients to take off its memorial jewelry while showering, bathing, and cleaning; although their items are said to be waterproof, some chemical substances can eventually damage both the stone and metal.
The Ordering Process Is Part of the Experience
Quality is not confined only to the final product. It is also important to think about the process of ordering personalized memorial jewelry.
Customers need to be aware of what materials are needed, how much of them is needed, how personal materials must be mailed, and what will happen with the remaining material.
It may be easier for customers to deal with it if they have clear instructions, especially if they are mailing something that is irreplaceable.
Petals and Keepsakes give their customers an opportunity to choose their jewelry first, and then send them instructions on how to mail their inclusions. Petals and Keepsakes uses materials like ashes, flowers, hair, fur, and fabric for some of its designs. Inclusions that are left unused are returned, and orders are usually completed in six-eight weeks.
Choosing a Keepsake That Feels Right
The ideal memorial jewelry is not necessarily the one that is the most luxurious or extravagant. The best memorial jewelry is the one which has been thoughtfully crafted using right materials and proportions along with personalized designs.
Before making a final decision, it is advisable to compare the metals, stone settings, available sizes and maintenance needs. It is also equally important to make your choice depending upon your own preferences instead of fashion.
When you select a simple pendant, an elegant ring or a personalized bracelet, some thoughtful choices can really make a lot of difference in terms of meaning. Cremation urns have a certain significance associated with them besides their appearance.
These items also have some important aspects of their creation which require attention.