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A Guide to Different Memorial Options: From Traditional to Modern Approaches

A Guide to Different Memorial Options: From Traditional to Modern Approaches

. 4 min read

Losing a loved one is a deeply personal experience, and choosing how to memorialize them is an essential step in honoring their life and legacy. Today, families have more options than ever before, ranging from traditional methods to modern innovations that provide unique ways to remember and celebrate their loved ones.

This guide will explore a variety of memorial options, highlighting considerations for decision-making and showcasing the Parting Stone solidified remains process as a beautiful and modern alternative to conventional ashes.

Traditional Memorial Options

Burial

Burial has been a cornerstone of memorial traditions for centuries. Families often choose burial in a cemetery where a loved one’s gravesite can be visited. Options include:

  • In-ground burial: The body is laid to rest in a casket, often accompanied by a headstone or marker.
  • Mausoleum entombment: Above-ground interment within a mausoleum offers a sheltered space for visiting.

Considerations:

  • Long-term maintenance of gravesites.
  • Cost of burial plots, caskets, and headstones.
  • Cultural or religious traditions.Learn more about traditional burial options.

Cremation

Cremation has become an increasingly popular option due to its flexibility and lower cost compared to traditional burial. Families can keep the cremated remains in an urn, scatter them in meaningful locations, or incorporate them into keepsakes such as jewelry.

Considerations:

  • Options for storing or scattering ashes.
  • Emotional readiness for scattering remains.
  • Environmental preferences (e.g., eco-friendly scattering).Explore more about cremation options and benefits.

Modern Memorial Innovations

With advancements in technology and shifting societal preferences, modern memorial options have emerged to offer unique, personalized ways to honor loved ones.

Parting Stone Solidified Remains

Solidified remains are a modern alternative to conventional ashes, transforming cremated remains into a collection of smooth, stone-like pieces. This innovative process provides families with a tactile, enduring, and visually beautiful way to remember their loved ones.

How It Works:

  • Step 1: A collection kit is mailed to retrieve the full amount of cremated remains.
  • Step 2: Impurities such as metals and implants are removed.
  • Step 3: The ash is turned into a clay-like material, which is shaped into stones.
  • Step 4: The stones are kiln-fired to solidify them.
  • Step 5: Finished stones are polished and returned to the family.

The final result is an average of 40-80+ stones, depending on the volume of remains. Each collection varies naturally in shape, color, and texture, making it uniquely reflective of the individual being memorialized.

Advantages:

  • Solidified remains are easy to handle, display, or share among family members.
  • They offer a more substantial, tangible option compared to ashes.
  • The stones are portable, allowing families to keep their loved one’s memory close, regardless of location.

How to Order: Families can contact Eirene to initiate the solidification process. To begin, provide the following information:

  • Your Full Name
  • Your Address
  • Your Phone Number
  • Your Email
  • The Deceased’s Full Name
  • The Deceased’s Date of Birth
  • The Deceased’s Date of Death

Current processing times for solidified remains are approximately one week to begin the process, with an estimated completion time of 84 days. Each step prioritizes the safekeeping and dignity of your loved one’s remains.

Learn more about Parting Stone solidified remains.

Living Memorials

For those seeking a sustainable option, living memorials incorporate cremated remains into a tree or plant. Companies offer biodegradable urns or pods that mix ashes with soil and seeds, creating a living tribute.

Considerations:

  • Ideal for nature lovers or eco-conscious individuals.
  • Requires a suitable outdoor space for planting.
  • May have legal considerations for where remains can be planted.Discover how living memorials work.

Memorial Jewelry

Another modern option involves incorporating a loved one’s remains into wearable items such as rings, necklaces, or bracelets. These keepsakes provide a deeply personal and portable way to remember your loved one.

Considerations:

  • Cost can vary widely based on materials and design.
  • May not appeal to everyone’s personal tastes.
  • Potential emotional significance of wearing remains.Browse options for memorial jewelry.

Digital Memorials

Technology has created opportunities for digital memorialization, allowing families to create online memorial websites, social media pages, or virtual memorial spaces where memories, photos, and messages can be shared.

Considerations:

  • Accessibility for family and friends worldwide.
  • The longevity of digital platforms.
  • Privacy settings and data security.Start your own digital memorial.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Memorial Option

Personal Values and Beliefs

  • Consider cultural, religious, or personal values when deciding on a memorial option. Some traditions may favor burial, while others are open to newer methods such as cremation or solidified remains.

Practicality and Accessibility

  • Think about how and where you want to honor your loved one. For example, burial plots require a specific location, while solidified remains or memorial jewelry can be kept at home or easily transported.

Environmental Impact

  • Many families today are mindful of sustainability. Options like living memorials or eco-friendly scattering cater to those who want a greener approach.

Cost

  • Memorial options vary significantly in cost. Traditional burial is often the most expensive, while cremation, solidified remains, or digital memorials can be more affordable.

Emotional Readiness

  • Certain options, such as scattering ashes or planting a tree, may require emotional preparedness. Ensure that all family members are comfortable with the chosen method.

Why Choose Solidified Remains?

Parting Stone solidified remains stand out as a versatile, meaningful, and modern option for families seeking an alternative to traditional ash. The tactile nature of the stones allows for a physical connection that ashes may not provide, and their unique appearance serves as a lasting tribute to your loved one’s individuality.

By choosing solidified remains through Eirene, families can ensure that their loved one’s memory is preserved in a way that is both beautiful and practical. With the option to display, share, or keep these stones close, this method empowers families to honor their loved ones on their own terms.


If you’re considering solidified remains as part of your memorial plan, don’t hesitate to reach out to Eirene for more information. Our team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today at support@eirene.ca.

Choosing the right memorial option is a deeply personal journey. Whether you prefer the tradition of burial, the innovation of solidified remains, or something in between, the most important thing is finding a method that resonates with your family and honors your loved one’s legacy.