How Do I Get an Urn for Ashes: A Guide for Memorial Choices

When it comes to choosing an urn for ashes, there are numerous options available, each with its unique benefits and considerations. Whether you're looking for a vessel to hold the ashes of a loved one or to make a personalized memorial, there are several steps and factors to take into account.

Purchasing a Vessel for Ashes

When purchasing an urn for ashes, it's important to consider cost-effectiveness, versatility, and personal preference. Online options can be significantly cheaper, especially for sudden deaths, but it's crucial to verify the measurements to ensure the urn is the right size.

While many think that urns are specialized items, the reality is that you don't need to pay a premium for something that's essentially a vase with a lid. The key is to focus on functionality. Ashes are sterile and non-toxic, so any suitable container can serve the purpose effectively. This includes whisky bottles for those with a fondness for alcohol or milk bottles for the teetotaler. In some cases, making your own urn can be a deeply personal and meaningful option to honor the deceased. A local artist or potter can help you craft a unique and cherished memorial.

Making Your Own Urn

Creating your own urn is not only a way to personalize the memorial but also a way to financially manage the cost. There are several steps involved in making an urn, starting with finding a local potter and commissioning the work. The cost can vary based on the size and materials used. For a relatively small urn of about 12 inches tall, you might expect to pay between $35 to $85. For a larger urn intended for garden placement, a local nursery might have options available, typically made of terracotta or concrete.

If the urn is intended for use in a funeral or cremation, a local potter is the best choice. With a potter, you have a range of options including earthenware, terracotta, stoneware, various colors, or porcelain, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your budget and preferences. Personalization is key, from color schemes to engravings, making your Memorial one-of-a-kind.

Understanding the Term URN in Context

The term 'URN' can refer to several different things. Without clarifying which specific use of the term you're referring to, an accurate answer is challenging. Wikipedia, for example, identifies several possibilities for 'URN', ranging from disambiguation of urns to unique identifiers in internet protocol systems. Searching 'URN' on Google will reveal a variety of related terms and definitions, further emphasizing the versatility of the term.

While the term 'URN' often pertains to funerary urns, it's essential to clarify the context when discussing urns for ashes. Whether for personal memorialization, garden placement, or cremation purposes, there are many avenues to explore.