The Gemz By Emz Journal · Personal memories, beautifully kept
A photograph captures their smile. A familiar signature brings back their voice. Ashes jewellery offers another deeply personal way to keep someone close: a small keepsake that holds a tiny amount of their ashes, with engraving that tells your own story.
What is ashes jewellery?
Ashes jewellery, also called cremation jewellery or urn jewellery, is designed to hold a small amount of cremated remains. The self-fill pieces in our ashes and cremation jewellery collection have a hollow compartment accessed through a small screw opening. Once filled and closed according to the product instructions, the piece can be worn as a personal memorial.
It is a keepsake for a symbolic amount of ashes, rather than a replacement for an urn. You can choose a necklace or bracelet and, on the relevant designs, add a photograph, fingerprint, handwriting or paw print. There is no right time to make this decision: choose when it feels right for you.
How does ashes jewellery work?
The ashes sit inside the jewellery; the engraving is on the outside. This means a piece can hold a private connection while displaying a favourite face, their original fingerprint or a few words written in their own hand.
For example, a photo ashes necklace combines a hollow heart pendant with an engraved photograph. A fingerprint ashes bracelet brings together the same idea with an original print. Check each product's personalisation choices before ordering, as the available options vary between designs.
How to fill an ashes necklace or bracelet
Our self-fill designs let you add the ashes yourself. An optional filling kit is offered on selected listings; check the options on the piece you choose. You do not need to send ashes for a self-fill order.
- Read the instructions first. Follow the guidance for your exact design, including any sealing instructions.
- Prepare a calm space. Use a clear, dry work surface and a tray or sheet of paper to help catch any small spills.
- Open the compartment carefully. Set the screw somewhere secure and use the recommended tools.
- Add only a tiny amount. Leave room for the closure; do not force larger particles through the opening or overfill it.
- Close as directed. Make sure the threads are clean and follow the supplied directions for securing or sealing the screw.
If filling it feels emotionally difficult, ask someone you trust to sit with you. You can also ask your funeral director whether they offer help; availability varies. Contact Emma before proceeding if you are unsure about the closure or filling process.
Choosing a piece that feels like you
Start with how you like to wear jewellery. A necklace can sit beneath clothing or be worn visibly. A bracelet keeps the engraving where you can see it easily. Consider the pendant size, bracelet fit, chain material and colour alongside the picture or print you want to use.
Our standard engraved pendants and charms are surgical steel. Some necklace listings offer sterling silver chain options; a silver-coloured pendant does not automatically mean solid sterling silver. Read the materials and measurements on the individual product page so you know exactly what you are choosing.
For a photo, look for a clear face with useful light and detail. The most meaningful image need not be a formal portrait: a relaxed smile may be the one you recognise most. Emma can assess an old, faded or damaged image through the free Photo Check before you order.
Personal touches, pet ashes and other ways to remember
Fingerprint jewellery uses an original print; handwriting jewellery can preserve a signature or short message from a card. If you are considering an ashes piece with either engraving, have the image checked before placing your order.
Ashes jewellery can also remember a much-loved pet. Our paw print ashes necklace combines a pet's original print with a self-fill compartment. A favourite pet photograph is another personal starting point.
You do not need ashes to create a meaningful memorial. A photo necklace, original handwriting keepsake or paw print design can be just as personal. If you are choosing a bereavement gift, gently ask about the recipient's preferences before ordering an ashes piece.
Caring for your ashes jewellery
Remove your keepsake before showering, swimming, sleeping or strenuous activity, and keep it away from cleaning products, perfume and harsh chemicals. Wipe it gently with a soft dry cloth and store it safely when unworn. Avoid opening the compartment repeatedly once it has been filled and secured.
Check the fastening and closure periodically and stop wearing it if either seems loose or damaged. Follow the jewellery care guide and the instructions provided for your chosen piece. Care is especially important for a keepsake that cannot be replaced in quite the same way.
Find your personal keepsake
Explore these designs, then check the individual page for materials, measurements and personalisation options.
Frequently asked questions
How much ash do you need for ashes jewellery?
Only a tiny, symbolic amount. The exact capacity depends on the design; follow that product's filling instructions and do not overfill the compartment.
Do I send my ashes to Gemz By Emz?
The self-fill pieces described in this guide are filled by you, so you do not need to send ashes. Check your chosen product listing before ordering.
Can I add a photograph as well as ashes?
Yes, selected photo urn designs combine an engraved photograph with a hollow compartment. Other designs offer fingerprints, handwriting or paw prints; check the individual options.
Can I wear ashes jewellery in the shower?
We recommend removing it before showering or swimming. Follow the specific care and closure instructions supplied with your piece.
Written by Emma Thomson, founder of Gemz By Emz. Creating personalised keepsakes since 2011, with a background in photography and image editing. Meet Emma.