What is the place where they put ashes? Exploring Cremation Memorialization Options
When a loved one passes away and the family chooses cremation, a common question arises: What is the place where they put ashes? The answer is multifaceted, as there are numerous respectful and meaningful ways to memorialize cremated remains, often referred to as "cremains." This article will delve into the various options available, helping you understand the diverse destinations for ashes.
Common Places and Practices for Ashes
The most common understanding of where ashes are placed often relates to traditional burial practices, but with cremation, the possibilities expand significantly. Here are the primary locations and methods:
1. Columbarium Niches
A columbarium is a structure specifically designed to hold cremated remains. It's essentially an above-ground mausoleum, often found in cemeteries, churches, or as standalone memorial gardens. Ashes are typically housed in urns, which are then placed inside a designated compartment within the columbarium, known as a niche. These niches are usually sealed and can be adorned with a plaque bearing the deceased's name, birth and death dates, and sometimes a personal message or image. It offers a permanent, visible resting place for remembrance.
2. In-Ground Burial (Cremation Plots)
Yes, ashes can be buried in the ground, much like traditional caskets. Many cemeteries offer dedicated "cremation plots" or "scattering gardens" for this purpose. The cremains, often in a biodegradable urn or a decorative keepsake urn, are interred at a specific depth. This option provides a traditional burial experience with the lower cost and environmental benefits associated with cremation. The grave can be marked with a headstone or marker, similar to a traditional burial.
3. Scattering Gardens
Scattering gardens are designated areas, often within cemeteries or memorial parks, where cremated remains can be scattered. The ashes are dispersed over the ground, creating a natural and often peaceful memorial. While the physical act of scattering is the primary event, many gardens allow for a small marker or plaque to be placed in a communal area to commemorate the individual, even though the ashes are dispersed throughout the garden.
4. Private Mausoleums or Crypts
For those who desire a more private and elaborate memorial, ashes can be interred in a private mausoleum or a crypt. These are essentially private above-ground structures or compartments within a larger mausoleum designed to hold one or more caskets and/or urns. This offers a highly personalized and secure resting place.
5. Urns at Home
Many families choose to keep their loved one's ashes at home. This is often done in a decorative urn, which can be displayed as a tribute in a place of honor within the home. The urn can be a simple ceramic vessel, an intricately carved wooden box, or a custom-made piece reflecting the deceased's personality or interests. This provides a constant, tangible connection for grieving family members.
6. Keepsake Urns and Jewelry
Smaller "keepsake" urns are also available, allowing families to divide ashes among multiple loved ones. Additionally, a small portion of the ashes can be incorporated into memorial jewelry, such as pendants, bracelets, or rings. This allows individuals to carry a tangible piece of their loved one with them at all times.
7. Ash Scattering in Nature
A popular and deeply personal option is scattering ashes in a meaningful natural location. This could be a favorite park, a mountaintop, a river, or the ocean. Many people find solace in returning their loved one's remains to a place that held significance for them. It's important to research local regulations regarding ash scattering, as some areas have specific rules or permit requirements.
8. Ash Burial at Sea
For those with a connection to the sea, scattering ashes at sea is a common choice. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has regulations for this, generally requiring scattering to occur at least three nautical miles from shore. The ashes can be scattered directly, or placed in a biodegradable urn. Some families opt for a memorial service on a boat at the time of scattering.
9. Other Memorialization Options
Beyond the traditional, innovative memorialization methods are emerging. These include:
- Memorial Reefs: Ashes can be incorporated into a concrete reef ball, which is then placed on the ocean floor to create new marine habitats.
- Creating Art: Some companies can incorporate ashes into glass art, ceramics, or even diamonds.
- Planting Trees: A biodegradable urn containing ashes can be buried with a tree sapling, allowing the ashes to nourish the growth of new life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How are ashes prepared for placement in a columbarium niche?
After cremation, the cremains are typically placed in a temporary plastic container or a decorative urn. If the ashes are to be placed in a columbarium niche, the cremains will be transferred into a permanent urn suitable for display and sealing within the niche. The urn is then often placed inside a velvet bag for a more dignified presentation.
Why do people choose to scatter ashes instead of burying them?
People choose to scatter ashes for various reasons. It can be a more environmentally friendly option, a more cost-effective choice compared to traditional burial, or it can be a deeply personal way to return a loved one's remains to a place that held special meaning for them, such as a favorite natural landscape. It can also symbolize a sense of freedom and a return to nature.
Are there legal restrictions on where ashes can be placed or scattered?
Yes, there can be legal restrictions. While keeping ashes at home is generally permissible, scattering ashes in public spaces, national parks, or at sea may require permits or adherence to specific regulations. It is always advisable to check with local authorities and the EPA for guidelines before scattering ashes in a particular location. Burial of ashes also typically requires securing a plot in a cemetery.
Can ashes be divided among multiple family members?
Absolutely. It is very common for families to divide cremated remains among multiple relatives. This is often done using smaller "keepsake" urns or by creating memorial jewelry. This allows different family members to have a tangible memento or a personal place of remembrance for their loved one.
