Eternally Beautiful: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Burial Urn

Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. • May 14, 2023

Your loved one deserves the perfect final vessel. Before you buy a burial urn, here are the most important factors and considerations you should keep in mind.

Burying the urn is one of the time-tested ways people say goodbye to their loved ones. However, for first-time users of cremation services in Chadds Ford Township, PA, the sheer number of burial urn options can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. In this guide, we explain the factors that matter and how each type of urn fits common preferences. 


When it comes to burial urns, there are several factors to consider, including material, design, size, and functionality. One of the most popular materials for urns is ceramic, which can be adorned with intricate patterns and colors or customized with a portrait of the deceased. Another option is bronze, known for its durability and ability to withstand the elements. 


For those looking for an eco-friendlier option, there are biodegradable urns made from materials such as recycled paper, bamboo, or salt. These urns are designed to break down naturally over time, making them ideal for green and water burials


In addition to the material, the urn design is also a significant consideration. Traditional urns are often vase-shaped, but there are also unique designs that can reflect the personality or interests of the deceased. For example, a music lover might opt for an urn shaped like a guitar, while a nature enthusiast may choose an urn adorned with leaves or flowers. 


Size is another crucial factor to consider when selecting an urn. While most urns can hold one individual’s ashes, larger options are available for families who wish to keep the remains of multiple loved ones together. Some urns even have compartments for storing mementos or keepsakes alongside the ashes. 


If you want a traditional burial, urn vaults are an essential consideration. These vaults are designed to protect the urn from the weight of the soil and other external factors, ensuring that it remains intact for generations to come. Made from materials such as concrete or plastic, these vaults come in various sizes and can be customized to suit individual preferences. 


Furthermore, when considering burial urns, it’s necessary to consider the location and type of burial you have in mind. Some cemeteries have specific requirements for the type of urn or vault used for burial. Check with the cemetery management before making a final decision. Additionally, some people may scatter the ashes or keep them at home, in which case a different type of urn may be more appropriate. 


Ultimately, most urns are suitable for burial, but the right one depends on what you want out of the process. A family that wants their loved one’s ashes to dissolve into the earth days or weeks after the burial is better suited to a biodegradable urn than one that wants to protect the remains for years or decades. For them, a ceramic or metal urn would be more appropriate. 


The rest, from size to design, depends on the family’s needs, cemetery requirements, and the deceased’s wishes and personality. While not every urn material offers the same variety, there’s almost always something for everyone. 


For further questions, contact us. We provide cremation services in Chadds Ford Township, PA, and we will be happy to point you and your family in the right direction. 


 

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