Everything You Need to Know About Cremation

Cremation has become one of the most common end-of-life choices in the U.S. and many parts of the world. It’s often more affordable than traditional burial and offers flexibility for families who want to plan unique, meaningful tributes. But cremation can also raise questions – from how it works to what happens to the ashes to whether you can be cremated and still have a viewing or funeral. 

We’ve compiled the most essential facts, options, and considerations about cremation so you can make confident and informed decisions.

What Is Cremation?

Cremation is the process of using heat to reduce a body to bone fragments. These fragments are then processed into what we call “ashes” or “cremated remains.” Traditional flame cremation takes place in a special furnace called a crematory or retort and usually lasts two to three hours. The resulting ashes typically weigh between three and seven pounds and can be returned to families in an urn or other container.

Can You Have a Viewing or Funeral Before Cremation?

Yes, you can. Many families choose to have a viewing or a funeral service before cremation takes place. This may involve embalming the body and placing it in a rental casket for visitation. The rental casket contains a removable inner container that is used during cremation, keeping costs down while allowing for a traditional service.

Witnessing Cremation

Some families also opt for a “witness cremation,” where a small group is present for the beginning of the cremation process. This can be a powerful ritual for those who want to honor their loved one in a personal way.

Cremation and Legal Considerations

Including Cremation Wishes in a Will

While you can list your preference for cremation in your will, it may not be read in time to influence decisions. It’s better to document these wishes in a separate advance directive or pre-need form and discuss them with your next of kin.

Who Makes the Final Call?

In most states, your legal next of kin makes the final decision about disposition unless you’ve appointed someone else in writing. This makes early planning and clear communication essential.

Alternatives to Flame Cremation: What Is Aquamation?

Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, uses water and an alkaline solution to break down the body instead of fire. The process is gentler on the environment, using significantly less energy and producing no emissions. The end result is a similar ash-like substance that can be returned to the family.

Aquamation is legal in more than half of the U.S. states, but availability still varies widely. If you’re interested in this method, check your state laws and ask local funeral providers.

What Happens to the Ashes After Cremation?

Cremated remains offer many meaningful options for final placement or memorialization.

Keeping Ashes at Home

Families often choose to keep ashes in a decorative urn or a keepsake container. Some prefer dividing the ashes into smaller keepsakes like mini urns or jewelry.

Scattering Ashes

Scattering can be done in a garden, at sea, or in another meaningful place. Be sure to check local and federal regulations, especially on public lands or in national parks.

Burial or Columbarium

Ashes can be buried in a cemetery plot or placed in a niche in a columbarium. Biodegradable urns are also available for earth-friendly burials.

Turning Ashes Into Keepsakes and Memorials

For those who want something more unique, cremated ashes can be turned into keepsake items.

Cremation Jewelry

Small amounts of ashes can be placed into necklaces, bracelets, or rings. These pieces offer a way to carry a loved one close.

Glass Art and Memorial Objects

Some artists incorporate ashes into blown glass or custom artwork, creating one-of-a-kind memorial pieces.

Cremation Diamonds

Yes, ashes can be turned into lab-created diamonds. The process involves extracting carbon from the ashes and using high pressure and heat to form a gemstone over several months. 

How Long Do Cremated Ashes Last?

Cremated ashes are inorganic and don’t decompose over time. If kept in a sealed container and protected from moisture, they can last indefinitely. If you choose a biodegradable urn for burial or scattering, the remains will naturally return to the earth over time.

What If You Don’t Want to Keep the Ashes?

Not everyone wants – or can – keep cremated remains. If you find yourself with unclaimed ashes or simply wish to part with them, you have options. Funeral homes can help with respectful scattering or burial, sometimes in communal plots. Just be sure that the ashes are never disposed of in household trash or in a way that violates local laws.

Cremation: A Flexible and Affordable Alternative

Cremation offers families a flexible and often more affordable alternative to traditional burial, with countless options for honoring a loved one’s life. From aquamation to ashes-in-glass artwork to holding a funeral before cremation, you have choices that reflect your values and your loved one’s personality. The most important thing is to plan ahead, document your wishes, and talk openly with your family to ensure your decisions are honored when the time comes.

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