Choosing a cremation urn is a deeply personal decision, and it can feel overwhelming with the range of options available today. Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or selecting an urn for a loved one, this guide is here to help. From types and costs to how to buy the right size based on body weight, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed and thoughtful choice.
Understanding the Different Types of Cremation Urns
There are many different types of cremation urns, each designed for specific purposes. Knowing the key differences will help you choose the best one based on how you plan to use or display the urn.
- Traditional Urns:
These are beautifully crafted containers made from materials like wood, metal, or ceramic. Traditional urns often come with intricate designs or can be customized with engravings to reflect the personality of your loved one. They’re versatile enough for indoor display, burial, or placement in a columbarium. - Biodegradable Urns:
For those looking for an eco-friendly option, biodegradable urns are an excellent choice. Made from materials like paper, salt, or sand, these urns are designed to decompose naturally over time. They’re ideal for green burials or water-based ceremonies, where the urn will return to nature without harming the environment. - Aquamation Urns:
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is a water-based process that produces ashes in a more eco-conscious way. Aquamation urns are designed specifically for ashes from this process and are often made from biodegradable or eco-friendly materials. This option is gaining popularity, particularly among families who value sustainable practices. - Keepsake Urns:
Sometimes, families choose to divide the ashes among multiple people. Keepsake urns are smaller urns designed to hold only a portion of the ashes. These are perfect for sharing among family members or for keeping a small amount of ashes while scattering the rest. - Companion Urns:
Companion urns are designed to hold the ashes of two individuals, usually spouses or close family members who wish to be memorialized together. These urns come in two main styles: a single chamber that holds both sets of ashes together or a divided chamber that keeps them separate within the same urn. Companion urns are often larger and heavier due to the dual capacity, and they come in many designs to reflect the personalities of both individuals. - Jewelry Urns:
For those who want to keep their loved one close at all times, jewelry urns are a wonderful option. These are small, wearable pieces—such as pendants, bracelets, or rings—that hold a tiny portion of ashes. Jewelry urns offer a discreet and deeply personal way to remember a loved one, and they come in a variety of materials, including gold, silver, and stainless steel.
What Do Cremation Urns Cost?
The cost of cremation urns can vary widely depending on the materials, craftsmanship, and level of customization. Understanding what influences these costs will help you find the right urn within your budget.
| Urn Type | U.S. Pricing | Canadian Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Urns | $50 – $1,000+ | CAD 75 – CAD 1,200+ |
| Biodegradable Urns | $50 – $500 | CAD 75 – CAD 650 |
| Keepsake Urns | $20 – $500 | CAD 25 – CAD 650 |
| Jewelry Urns | $20 – $500 | CAD 25 – CAD 650 |
| Aquamation Urns | $100 – $500 | CAD 125 – CAD 650 |
| Companion Urns | $200 – $1,500+ | CAD 250 – CAD 2,000+ |
Where to Buy Cremation Urns
Once you have a sense of what type of urn you’re looking for, the next step is knowing where to buy it. The good news is that there are many options, each with its own advantages.
- Funeral Homes:
While convenient, funeral homes tend to have a smaller selection of urns and higher prices due to markups. However, if you need help choosing, their expertise can be valuable. - Online Marketplaces:
Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and specialized retailers like Perfect Memorials and Memorials.com offer a wide range of urns at various price points. The benefit of buying online is that you can compare many options, often at lower prices. - Custom Artisans:
For something truly unique, consider buying from a custom artisan. Many talented artists on Etsy or local craftspeople can create personalized urns, whether you want an artistic design or something that incorporates meaningful symbols.
How to Choose the Right Size Urn: A Guide Based on Body Weight
One of the most important things to consider when buying an urn is size. The general rule is that you need 1 cubic inch of space for every pound of body weight before cremation. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right size:
| Body Weight (lbs) | Minimum Urn Size (Cubic Inches) |
|---|---|
| Up to 50 lbs | 50 cubic inches |
| 51 – 100 lbs | 100 cubic inches |
| 101 – 150 lbs | 150 cubic inches |
| 151 – 200 lbs | 200 cubic inches |
| 201 – 250 lbs | 250 cubic inches |
| 251 – 300 lbs | 300 cubic inches |
For example, if your loved one weighed 180 lbs, you would need an urn with a minimum capacity of 180 cubic inches. It’s always a good idea to choose an urn slightly larger than the calculated size to ensure a comfortable fit for the ashes.
Companion Urns:
For companion urns, which are designed to hold the ashes of two people, the sizing would typically be double the required amount. For example, if both individuals weighed around 150 lbs each, a companion urn would need to hold at least 300 cubic inches of ash.
Personalized Choices for Men and Women
When selecting an urn, many families look for something that reflects the personality or interests of their loved one. Here are a few popular options for men and women:
Urns for Men
Urns for men often feature simple, rugged designs with masculine motifs. Materials like wood, metal, and stone are popular, and common themes include hobbies like fishing, hunting, or military service. Earthy tones, blacks, and greys are typical color choices.
Urns for Women
Women’s urns tend to feature softer, more delicate designs, with materials like ceramic, glass, or rosewood. Themes like flowers, butterflies, or spiritual symbols are popular, and colors such as pastels, purples, or light blues are often chosen to evoke a sense of beauty and peace.
Aquamation Urns: A Special Choice for an Eco-Conscious Legacy
Aquamation, or water cremation, is an increasingly popular option for families looking to reduce their environmental impact. Urns for aquamation ashes are often made from biodegradable materials to align with the environmentally-conscious method of alkaline hydrolysis. These urns can also be used for water-based ceremonies, designed to float briefly before dissolving naturally.
- U.S. Pricing: $100 to $500
- Canadian Pricing: CAD 125 to CAD 650
Eco-friendly materials like bamboo, cornstarch, and natural fibers are commonly used for these urns, making them a perfect choice for families who want to honor a loved one’s commitment to sustainability.
Q&A: Common Questions About Cremation Urns
Can I use the basic urn provided by the crematory?
Yes, most crematories provide a basic temporary urn, usually made of plastic or cardboard. This urn is perfectly functional if you’re planning to scatter the ashes or transfer them to a permanent urn later. However, if you want something more decorative or personal for long-term storage, you may want to purchase a more permanent urn.
Do I need an expensive urn?
Not necessarily. The price of an urn does not reflect its functionality—every urn serves the same basic purpose of holding ashes. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of affordable urns made from durable materials that look beautiful. The decision to buy a more expensive urn often comes down to personal preferences, such as material, design, or customization.
What if I plan to scatter the ashes?
If you’re planning to scatter the ashes, you may not need a permanent urn. Some families choose to purchase a scattering urn, which is designed specifically for this purpose. After scattering, you can keep a small portion of ashes in a keepsake urn or piece of memorial jewelry if desired.
How do I know if an urn is TSA-approved for air travel?
If you need to transport ashes by plane, it’s important to ensure the urn is made from TSA-compliant materials. TSA-approved urns are usually made of lightweight materials like wood, plastic, or certain metals that can be scanned by airport security. Avoid
materials like lead or thick metals that can block x-ray scanners.
How big are cremation urns, and how heavy are they?
Urn sizes vary depending on their intended use. A standard adult urn typically holds about 200 cubic inches of ashes and is roughly the size of a small vase (8–12 inches tall). Companion urns are larger and hold double that amount, around 400 cubic inches. Weight depends on the material. Metal or marble urns can weigh several pounds, while lightweight urns made from biodegradable materials or wood may weigh less. Jewelry urns, being very small, are typically less than an inch in size and weigh only a few grams.
Can I divide the ashes among family members?
Yes, many families choose to divide the ashes among multiple urns or keepsake jewelry. Keepsake urns are designed for this purpose and come in various sizes to hold small portions of ashes. This allows each family member to have a personal memento.
Do I need an urn for burial?
If you’re planning to bury the urn in a cemetery, check the cemetery’s guidelines. Some cemeteries require the use of a burial vault to protect the urn, while others may allow direct burial. Biodegradable urns are ideal for natural or green burials, while traditional urns may require a vault.
See also: Flying with ashes
