Cremation Stones and Ash Scattering: A Keepsake and a Ceremony
Cremation stones and ash scattering are both meaningful ways to honor a loved one, and many families choose to combine the two rather than choose only one. Stones are a keepsake you can keep for years (even generations) to come. Ash scattering is a ceremony usually indicating a special place or memory to scatter some (or all) of a loved ones ashes.
Choosing cremation memorial ideas for your departed loved one can feel anxious and complicated. It is a choice more and more families are facing as cremation rates rise. According to the National Funeral Directors Association’s (NFDA) 2025 report, the current cremation rate is 63.4% and is projected to rise to 82.3% by 2045. If your loved one chose cremation, you may be wondering what kind of memorial is appropriate; should you scatter the ashes, or turn them into keepsakes like cremation stones?
Thankfully, there’s a lot of flexibility with cremation-based memorials; it’s possible to bury, scatter, or display the ashes more traditionally while also using some of the ashes for cremation keepsakes. Let’s explore your different options, why some families choose scattering, cremation stones, or both, and how each memorial option can work together.
Cremation Stones, Keepsakes Made From Ashes or a Keepsake to Hold Them
There are two main kinds of cremation stones: those that hold ashes and those made from ashes.
Cremation stones that hold ashes are usually made out of ceramic and are designed to hold a small portion of ashes. You can display these small cremation stones or even carry them in a pocket or bag.
Cremation stones made from ashes are a different story. The Living Urn® uses cremation ashes to make ceramic-like “stones” that are fired in a kiln like pottery. These durable stones are long-lasting memorials and a beautiful and unique way to preserve your loved one’s legacy. These stones can be stored safely or displayed indoors or outdoors.
The Living Urn® also makes cremation glass “touchstones,” which incorporate cremation ashes into hand-blown glass pieces that swirl with color and catch the light. These sentimental and unique pieces are handcrafted in the United States and can be further customized with your choice of color.
Scattering Ashes, a Ceremony to Honor the Loved One
Some families choose to scatter all or some of their loved one’s cremation ashes. This could be at the request of the departed, or simply the family's preferred way to honor their loved one. Scattering ashes returns your loved one to the earth and is a deeply symbolic gesture, whether on land or at sea. Having a ceremony outside can be very meaningful to many people, especially if the departed loved the outdoors. Ash-scattering ceremonies are also much more cost-effective than traditional burials and funerals.
Be sure to research your local laws and regulations before scattering ashes in public spaces. For example, you typically can’t scatter ashes along beaches or rivers and need permission from any national parks before doing so. It’s fine to scatter on private property with permission, or in cemeteries, scattering gardens, or other designated spaces.
Can You Create Cremation Stones Before Scattering Ashes?
Yes, you can absolutely make your cremation stones before scattering ashes. Ashes can be stored indefinitely, so there is no rush to scatter them. Many people will wait until schedules align, until more people can attend a scattering, or they simply need more time before they are ready. Also, you only need a small portion of cremation ashes to make the stones, leaving plenty for scattering, burial, or display.
This approach often appeals to families because it provides a permanent memorial and allows you to hold a scattering ceremony if that was your loved one’s wish. One of the best parts of cremation stones is that there are plenty to share, so each family member who wants one can take home a lasting memorial keepsake.
Questions To Ask Before Choosing a Memorial Option
- Did your loved one leave specific wishes?
- Does your family want a permanent place to visit?
- Would family members like individual keepsakes?
- Are there multiple relatives who want to participate in remembrance?
- Is there a meaningful location for an ash scattering ceremony?
- Do you want a memorial that can be displayed at home?
- Would combining memorial options better meet your family’s needs?
Asking yourself and your family members these questions can help you make a better, more informed decision about how to memorialize your loved one. And again, remember, there’s no official timeline, so there’s no need to make an immediate decision.
Discover Cremation Stones From The Living Urn
Cremation stones from The Living Urn® are meaningful memorials for those seeking a lasting tribute to their loved one. Made from cremated remains, these durable yet beautiful keepsakes will last for years to come. A unique keepsake, cremation stones are designed to be held or displayed and can also be stored safely for the long term.
Many families also pair the creation of cremation stones with other, more formal memorials, such as an ash scattering ceremony, planting a memorial tree, or an indoor display urn. Every family’s journey with memorializing a departed loved one is different and unfolds on its own timeline. Whether you choose cremation stones, ash scattering, or both, the most meaningful memorial is one that reflects your loved one's life and legacy.