How To Open Your Cremation Jewelry

Cremation jewelry may open in a number of different ways, depending on the style of the ash pendant. Theoretically, you will only have to open your cremation jewelry one time, as you will seal and secure the opening once the chamber of your cremation keepsake is filled.

Cremation Jewelry with a Top-Opening Bale:

Many styles of cremation jewelry feature a top-opening bale. The bale is the tiny eyelet or circle at the top of the urn pendant, through which the necklace or chain is attached to the cremation jewelry.  A top-opening bale is discreet, with nothing to indicate that this is the opening to the cremation jewelry.

Cremation Jewelry with a Threaded-Screw Opening:

Other styles of cremation jewelry may feature a small threaded-screw opening, typically located on the bottom or at the back of the urn pendant. Cremation jewelry with this type of opening may or may not have a bale.

The type of opening your cremation jewelry features depends mostly on the design of the jewelry. Artisans take great care to make the opening discreet and ensure that it does not interfere with the cremation jewelry’s artistic design.

Handle Your Cremation Jewelry with Care:

No matter which type of opening your cremation jewelry features, there are several points you’ll want to keep in mind. First and foremost, always open and close your cremation jewelry gently to avoid damage to the threads. And although cremation jewelry openings are typically very secure, sealing the jewelry with non-water soluble glue will help to keep the contents safe from moisture and provide an added measure of security.

Some cremation jewelry ships with a special glue to use for this purpose; otherwise, you can purchase a tube of Krazy Glue or use any other non-water soluble glue you may have around the house.

Help for Opening and Filling Cremation Jewelry:

The only reason you’ll need to open your cremation jewelry is to fill it with ashes, crushed sympathy flowers, dirt from a gravesite, or a lock of your loved one’s hair; once the contents are in place, you can permanently seal the opening. Some people are concerned about damaging the jewelry, however, or they may be uncomfortable filling their cremation jewelry themselves.

If you have any discomfort about handling your cremation jewelry in this manner, consider asking a local jeweler or funeral director for assistance. Most will be willing to open and fill your cremation keepsake for you at little or no charge.