Can Cremation Ashes Be Split?
The question of whether cremation ashes can be split is one that many individuals considering cremation may have, especially if they wish to share a loved one's ashes with family members, close friends, or memorialize them in multiple locations. The practice of dividing cremation ashes has become increasingly common, as more people seek meaningful ways to honor the memory of their loved ones in various ways. But is it possible to split cremation ashes, and how can this be done respectfully and appropriately?
Understanding Cremation Ashes
Before delving into the process of splitting ashes, it's important to understand what cremation ashes consist of. Cremation ashes, often referred to as cremated remains or "cremains," are the bone fragments left after a body has been cremated at extremely high temperatures. These fragments are then processed into a fine, powder-like consistency.
The total amount of ashes varies depending on the size of the individual, but typically, the cremains from an adult will fill about 3-7 pounds (1.5-3 kg). These ashes do not contain any harmful substances, as the body’s organic material has been completely burned away. The cremains are mostly composed of calcium phosphate, a natural substance found in bones.
While cremation remains are not harmful, they are incredibly personal. Many families choose to scatter, preserve, or keep the ashes in various ways to honor their loved ones, and dividing them may be part of this process.
Reasons for Splitting Cremation Ashes
There are several reasons why individuals may choose to split cremation ashes, each stemming from personal desires, family traditions, or symbolic gestures.
Sharing with Family and Loved Ones
One of the most common reasons people split cremation ashes is to allow family members or close friends to keep a portion of the ashes as a cherished keepsake. This is particularly important when there are multiple family members who want to hold on to a piece of their loved one’s memory. Splitting cremains ensures that everyone has a small, tangible reminder of the deceased, whether it’s in the form of an urn, necklace, or other memorial items.
Spreading Ashes in Multiple Locations
Many people want to honor their loved one in multiple places that were meaningful to them, such as a favorite park, a beach, or a family home. In such cases, dividing the ashes allows for the distribution of cremains in various spots that hold special significance, ensuring that the loved one’s presence is felt in multiple locations.
Memorial Jewelry
Another popular reason for splitting cremation ashes is to create memorial jewelry. Cremation jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets, or rings, can hold a small portion of cremated remains, allowing family members to carry a part of their loved one with them wherever they go. This practice has gained popularity due to the comfort it offers to those who want to keep their loved one close to their heart.
Can You Legally Split Cremation Ashes?
The short answer is yes, it is legal to split cremation ashes. In most jurisdictions, there are no laws preventing individuals from dividing cremation remains, as long as the ashes are being handled responsibly and with respect for the deceased.
However, it's important to keep in mind that local laws may have specific guidelines when it comes to disposing of or scattering cremains, especially in public spaces. For instance, some areas may require permits for scattering ashes in national parks, bodies of water, or public spaces. So, if you're planning to divide and scatter ashes in multiple locations, it's important to check local regulations to ensure compliance.
How to Split Cremation Ashes
If you're considering splitting cremation ashes, it's important to handle them with care. The process of dividing ashes is fairly simple, but it does require some thoughtfulness and respect for the deceased. Here are some steps and considerations to keep in mind when splitting cremation ashes:
1. Gather the Proper Materials
To split the ashes, you will need to gather a few tools and materials:
A clean, flat surface: Choose a clean, flat surface to avoid mixing up the ashes.
Small containers: You'll need several small containers or urns to hold the divided ashes. These could be decorative urns, small jars, or specialized containers like cremation jewelry pendants or keepsake urns.
Measuring tools (optional): Some people prefer to measure out an exact portion for each container, especially if they’re dividing the ashes among multiple family members. Small kitchen scales or measuring spoons can help ensure equal portions.
2. Handle the Ashes Gently
Cremation ashes are very fine and powdery, so it's important to handle them gently. Using gloves can help ensure that the ashes don’t get contaminated by oils or dirt from your hands, and it also shows respect for the remains.
3. Divide the Ashes Evenly
If you’re dividing the ashes into multiple containers, take time to distribute the cremains evenly. You may want to use a small scoop, spoon, or funnel to transfer the ashes. In some cases, the funeral home or crematorium will offer assistance in dividing the ashes for you, especially if you plan on turning them into memorial jewelry or keepsakes. Some providers also offer services to help you divide ashes and ship them to various family members.
4. Seal the Containers
Once the ashes are divided, be sure to seal each container securely to prevent any ashes from spilling out. If you’re using small urns, make sure the lids are tightly closed. If you’re turning the ashes into keepsakes, jewelry, or other items, ensure that they are properly sealed and protected from the elements.
5. Respect the Wishes of the Deceased
When dividing ashes, it’s important to keep in mind any wishes the deceased may have had regarding their final resting place. If they expressed a desire to have their ashes scattered in a particular location, make sure to honor that request while also being mindful of how others in the family wish to keep a portion of the ashes.
Creative Ways to Split and Honor Cremation Ashes
Aside from dividing ashes into multiple urns or memorial containers, there are several creative ways to split and memorialize cremation ashes. Here are a few options that can help make the experience even more meaningful:
Memorial Jewelry
Cremation jewelry has grown increasingly popular, offering a personal way to keep a small portion of cremation ashes close to you at all times. Some companies specialize in creating necklaces, rings, and bracelets that can hold a small amount of cremated remains inside a pendant or charm.
Biodegradable Cremation Products
For those wishing to honor their loved one’s connection with nature, biodegradable cremation products allow the ashes to be scattered in a way that benefits the environment. Some people choose to divide the ashes between multiple biodegradable urns that contain seeds, which grow into trees or flowers after being planted. This allows the ashes to return to nature in a beautiful and environmentally friendly way.
Cremation Art
Some people opt to have a portion of their loved one’s ashes incorporated into a piece of memorial art, such as glass or resin sculptures. This could be a custom piece made by a skilled artisan who specializes in working with cremains. This can be a beautiful and permanent reminder of your loved one, and it serves as a unique way to share the ashes with others.
Scattering Ashes in Multiple Locations
If you have several meaningful places where you would like to honor the deceased, dividing the ashes allows you to scatter portions in multiple locations. For example, you could scatter one portion of ashes at a favorite family lake, another in a forest or garden, and another at a place the loved one always wanted to visit. This can create a sense of comfort and continuity, knowing that your loved one is present in several places that meant something to them.
For those wishing to scatter ashes in multiple locations, Bonaventure’s destination scattering services provide a beautiful option. Bonaventure offers professional services for destination ash scattering in a variety of serene, picturesque locations across the U.S., including national parks and special sites that were significant to your loved one. By partnering with park rangers and other experts, Bonaventure ensures that the process of scattering ashes is carried out in a way that is both respectful and mindful of the environment. You can choose to split your loved one’s ashes between different locations, ensuring that their final resting places are as meaningful as their life.
Bonaventure offers services in dozens of national parks and unique outdoor locations, giving families the opportunity to memorialize their loved one in a variety of natural settings that hold special significance. Whether it’s a mountain range, ocean shore, or forest preserve, this service allows you to divide and scatter ashes in multiple pristine locations, creating a lasting tribute to your loved one’s journey through life.
Final Thoughts on Splitting Cremation Ashes
Splitting cremation ashes is a personal decision that can provide comfort to those who wish to keep a portion of their loved one’s remains while also honoring their memory in multiple ways. Whether it’s sharing ashes with family members, turning a portion into a keepsake, or scattering ashes in meaningful locations, dividing cremains offers a way to celebrate life and memorialize a loved one in a way that feels right for you and your family.
Remember to handle the ashes with care, respect the wishes of the deceased, and follow any legal or cultural guidelines when dividing and distributing cremation ashes. Ultimately, how you choose to divide and preserve cremation ashes is a deeply personal decision that can help create a meaningful tribute to the life of your loved one. With services like Bonaventure’s destination scattering and other unique memorialization options, families have the ability to craft a truly personal and beautiful tribute to their loved one’s memory, wherever they may be.
