Color, Texture, Volume: What To Expect with Cremated Ashes

While cremation is more popular in the U.S. than ever before, many people are surprised by the consistency, volume, weight, and color of a loved one’s cremated remains (commonly known as “ashes”) when they receive them.

In this article, we will help demystify the tangible and visible qualities of “ashes” to help make the process of handling them more comfortable.

There are many options for cremated ashes. Some families choose a permanent location for them, while others scatter them. In recent years, more creative options have emerged, including cremation jewelry and even sending ashes up in fireworks displays.

Below you’ll find information about what to expect when you receive a loved one’s ashes.

What Volume of Ashes Will You Receive

The average weight of ashes after an adult’s cremation is five pounds. However, this can vary depending on the weight and size of someone’s bones. Some ashes only weigh three pounds. Others can weigh up to 10 pounds.

The typical volume of cremation ashes is 200 cubic inches. An easy way to remember how to determine the rough volume of ashes is that the weight in pounds will translate to an equal number of cubic inches. Therefore, a 200-pound loved one will need an urn that accommodates 200 cubic inches of cremated remains. If you’re wondering what that volume of ashes looks and feels like, picture a 5-pound bag of sugar or flour. 

Factors That Influence Volume

Factors that may contribute to the weight and volume of ashes you get after a cremation include:

• Height: Taller people usually leave behind more ashes than short people.
• Sex: Male bones are generally denser than women’s, resulting in more “ashes.”
• Age: Children will typically leave behind a smaller amount of ashes than adults, mainly due to size differences. However, younger adult bodies normally yield more post-cremation ashes than those of elderly adults. This is because bone density decreases with age.

Knowing the weight of ashes after cremation may be less important to you than knowing the specific volume of ashes after cremation. For instance, if you’re selecting an urn, you want to be certain you’re choosing one large enough to contain all of your loved one’s remains securely.

What Color and Texture Are Cremated Ashes?

Cremated ashes, also called cremains, typically range in color from light gray or beige to a deeper gray or gray-brown. All of these shades are normal and depend on several natural factors.

The texture is usually coarse, similar to beach sand. Some ashes may feel slightly finer or rougher, but that’s also within the normal range.

Why Do Ashes Look Different?

Ashes vary based on factors such as body composition and the cremation process itself. A larger person or someone with more muscle or fat may be cremated at higher temperatures or for longer durations, which can affect the final color of the ashes. Bone density and the length of time the remains are exposed to heat also play a role.

Lighter or darker ashes are equally safe for scattering, placing in an urn, or turning into a keepsake, such as a diamond or Parting Stone.

What To Expect With a Pet’s Ashes

Like humans, sizes can vary significantly among pets, even within the same breed, so check with your funeral professional for a more accurate estimate. There are many thoughtful urns and keepsakes for a beloved companion. 

Dogs

The weight of a dog’s ashes after cremation will often be somewhere around 3.5% of their body weight. Those who perform dog cremations say the volume of a large dog’s ashes is usually about enough to fill a basic rectangular Kleenex box.

Cats

Because most domesticated cats tend to be relatively small when compared to larger dog breeds, they usually leave behind only two or three cups’ worth of ashes.

Horses

You can estimate the volume of ashes after a horse’s cremation by assuming every pound of body weight will yield one cubic inch of ashes, just like with humans. 

Getting Support After a Loved One’s Cremation

Receiving a loved one’s ashes can be an emotional moment. Whether you choose to keep them, scatter them, or create a memorial, know that you're not alone. Support from family, friends, and caring professionals can help guide you through your grief journey and honor your loved one in a way that feels right for you.

Learn the difference between traditional and direct cremation, find 7 creative ideas for what to do with cremated remains, and find memorial gifts with personalization options on Afterall.com. 

Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter for practical guidance on end-of-life matters. Click here.