What Size Urn Do I Need?

I know. This is a strange topic, but it’s something we should discuss.

Deciding on burial or cremation is the first decision to make. When my husband died, we chose cremation and his second son ventured to a special place to spread his ashes. I have informed my children of my choice. So, the topic of cremation is not so surprising at all.

I already have my urn. It is a beautiful, hand-painted decanter featuring the Tree of Life. I selected it while the blog site, crittercreche.com was our e-commerce store. It was difficult to choose a favourite from the artist’s amazing collection, but I fell in love with this design.

I display it as a piece of art, which it surely is. Its purpose is not questioned.

So now it’s time to choose an urn for Nanaimo.

What Size Urn Do I Need?

Just like people and pets, urns come in many different shapes and sizes. Follow these rules to better determine the size of the urn you need:

To select an urn that will hold all your loved ones’ ashes, you’ll need to know the approximate bodyweight of the person or pet. 1 lb. of body weight will yield just less than 1 cubic inch of ash. 

Cremation urn item descriptions list the size of the urn in Cubic Inches. If you know the weight of the deceased – then you know the size of the urn you need.  Capacity may be indicated in pounds or cups: 

1 Pound=1 Cubic Inch and 1 Cup=14.44 Cubic Inches.

For example, a pet urn may be described:

• Material: Aluminum
• Dimensions: 9.5”H x 3”Wx 4”L
• Capacity: 16 Cubic Inches

 For a quick calculation, 

• Approximate Weight = Approximate Size
• For example, a 10 lb. person or pet needs an urn that is approximately 10 cubic inches or larger.

Please note, however, that the amount of cremated remains (ashes) can vary due to different cremation processes, temperature variations, and the bone structure of the decedent. Buy an urn slightly larger than calculated to avoid having the urn be too small for the ashes.

Nana is a large, long-haired Tuxedo cat but I can only guess at her weight. I had better choose one I like in a size that is too big rather than too small.

Keepsake Jewellery

Keepsake Jewelry is designed to hold a trace amount of ashes, similar to the size of the head of a sewing pin. Pet lovers often choose to start keeping memories from the time they adopt their pet. They use the keepsake jewellery to hold their pet’s hair or sand from a favourite beach to bond with their pet. 

Having already decided on cremation, I must still choose an urn, a statue, or Keepsake jewellery. This is a matter of personal preference; size and style will depend on the cremation container. As noted in a previous article, Keepsake Jewellery is popular at present and it is an interesting option. Here are a few of my favourites – now I have to select only one.

Which one would you choose? Use the links or comments to help me decide.