What to Do with Ashes: Cremation Diamonds

Cremation diamonds bring new meaning to the phrase, "diamonds are forever." If you wish to preserve the memory of your loved one in a special way, a variety of companies can transform cremated ashes into priceless gems.

One of the most popular companies creating cremation diamonds, LifeGem, operates in the United States and offers a variety of color and carat options along with jewelry settings to place the diamond in for an additional fee.

In Switzerland, Algordanza creates diamonds with a variety of cut and size options, but the color isn't altered, leaving the diamond a light blue color due to the boron naturally present in the ashes.

Another popular company that creates cremation diamonds is Cremation Solutions.

Cremation diamonds are created when a significant portion of the ashes is sent to a diamond-creating company. The ashes are then analyzed for their carbon content, since diamonds are approximately 99.9% carbon. The carbon is then isolated and put under extreme heat and pressure to turn into graphite.

From there, the graphite containing the carbon from the ashes is put into a specialized machine that replicates the high temperature and pressures found underground, where diamonds are created naturally.

The process can take several weeks to several months to complete, depending on the size of the diamond. The end result is a unique, rough diamond that is then cut into the desired shape and placed into a special box for shipping or fixed to its jewelry setting if one is available.

Various colors are created by adding trace elements like boron (which, as stated above, turns the diamonds blue).

The smallest carat sizes of cremation diamonds usually start at about $2,000, and the largest sizes and most elegant cuts can cost more than $20,000 – a similar price range to that of a traditional funeral.

Some companies can even create more than one diamond per order, depending on the ashes received.

It's important to ensure that any company providing cremation service is trustworthy. Cremation-diamond companies should guarantee the diamond is real and the carbon used to make the diamond is from your loved one's ashes.

Some companies allow you to preplan to have a diamond made from your ashes. Refer to each company to better understand what services they do and do not guarantee, and what payment is required in advance.

If you are planning cremation services for yourself or a loved one, consider Neptune Society to take care of the cremation process. Our professional staff can help you plan a dignified cremation and can assist you with further planning. Learn more by completing the form on this page.

This article is part of our "What To Do With Cremation Ashes" series, in which we highlight unique memorialization options available to families who choose cremation. For more articles in this series, please see our article archive.

The Neptune Society is the nation's oldest and largest provider of affordable cremation services. Whether you have an immediate need or want to plan cremation services in advance, we are always available to assist you and your family.

Call 1-800-NEPTUNE (800-637-8863) today or contact us online to learn more.