How Much Do Cremation Stones Cost?

Cremation stones are a beautiful way to memorialize a loved one. With so many new options now available, families have the opportunity to have a tasteful, meaningful, and everlasting tribute by having a loved one's ashes combined with glass, clay, or other natural minerals to create these special stones, also commonly referred to as cremation stones. Cremation stones range in cost from $149 to over $2,000, depending on the supplier, type of stone, and number of stones produced.

The creation of cremation stones from ashes is a work of art. As such, several crucial steps must be undertaken to deliver a final, high-quality stone and the steps taken vary by manufacturer. The cost of cremation stones also vary. Here are a few examples of what some cremation stone manufacturers can charge:

Many funeral homes offer Cremation Stones. These funeral homes do not handle the cremation stone process themselves. Instead, they outsource this service to a company that turns cremated ashes into small, polished stones. Cremated remains are shipped to the facility for processing and then returned to the funeral home. 

Glass cremation stones, or touchstones, are another form of cremation stones. These glass stones utilize glass of a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes while infusing a small amount, typically less than one tablespoon, of ashes into the design. Glass cremation stones, such as The Living Urn’s Living Glass Touchstones cost $249.

How Much Do Cremation Stones Cost?

Cremation stones range in cost from $149 to over $2,000, depending on the supplier, type of stone, and number of stones produced. As a tangible remembrance piece, cremation stones can offer comfort and solace to the bereaved. Simply by placing them in your home, garden, next to a loved one's urn, or other meaningful place, you’ll know that the spirit of your dearly departed loved one is never far from your heart or your thoughts. Whether indoors or outdoors, cremation stones are everlasting, just like your loved one’s spirit.

Factors that Affect Cremation Stone Pricing

Creating high-quality cremation stones is a special art form that requires careful handling, thoughtful planning, and state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.  Several factors affect cremation stone pricing, including:

Facility

Creating a facility with the equipment necessary to handle the infusion of ashes into stone can be costly. For instance, glass artists who design glass cremation stones need a furnace capable of reaching temperatures of 2,000 to 2,100 degrees Fahrenheit to melt glass. Since molten glass cannot be manipulated by hand, special tools and techniques have to be implemented to get the desired results for each special glass cremation stone.  For other stones, kilns are typically used in the production process - these kilns can cost upwards of $20,000 each.

Skilled Artists

While turning cremated remains into stone involves a lot of science, it’s also a beautiful art form. For example, creating stones with clay is an artform that takes a lot of skill to ensure that there are no issues encountered during production. Similarly, glass artists who handle hot glass is extremely dangerous and takes extreme care and concentration. They need to be able to stay in the moment and see the project all the way through, from start to finish. Once started, molten glass can’t be set down for a lunch break. Continually managing temperature is one of the most crucial elements of successful glass making. Glass artists develop creative techniques and tools to achieve their incredible designs. The demand of the skilled artist can determine the cost of cremation stones.

Process

All cremation stones must be created from scratch and are custom pieces since ashes are included within the stones. Since the ashes of your loved one are irreplaceable, they take great care to make the cremation stone a one-of-a-kind keepsake. 

Chain of Custody

Keeping track of the ashes during the creation of cremation stones is crucial from start to finish. Manufacturers have developed sophisticated methods to monitor each cremation stone order properly. Some methods include personal order IDs and checkpoint software. Unlike tracking everyday household goods, there is no room for error regarding a loved one's ashes.

Cremation Stones vs. Cremation Rocks

Even though cremation stones and cremation rocks sound alike, they are very different. While cremation stones are created from ashes, cremation rocks are natural rocks with a hollowed-out space within them to house and permanently store ashes. Cremation rocks can utilize many different types of rocks, such as granite, limestone, and cast stone. There are several sizes and colors to choose from. Some rocks can offer space for the internment of partial ashes, one full set of cremated remains, or two full sets of cremated remains. Cremation rocks that provide space for partial ashes may be a good choice for families who wish to scatter ashes or create cremation jewelry or keepsakes. Cremation rocks that offer space for two sets of complete ashes can be a nice choice for families who wish to intern the remains of two departed family members together, such as spouses. Here are a few examples of cremation rocks and their pricing:

Synthetic Cremation Rock: These types of cremation rocks are made of composite materials to look like natural granite. Smaller rock urns that are about 9” x 10” x 6” are approximately $150. Larger rock urns around 10” x 12” x 5” are slightly more expensive, costing about $190. Each includes a plaque for engraving.

Individual Cremation Rock: A cremation rock made of granite weighing nearly 800 lbs can cost as much as $2,400. A much larger granite rock weighing around 1,400 lbs may cost $2,800. Some premium colors may increase the cost. The rock is expertly cut to give it a nice shape and a rustic look. The departed’s name and dates can be engraved on a bronze plaque.

Companion Memorial Cremation Rock: Like the Individual Cremation Rock, the Companion Rock is made of granite and can come in different sizes. The 800 lb Companion can cost around $3,100, while the 1400 lb Companion can cost $3,600. The creation of two internment spaces and the extra bronze plaque with engraving increases the Companion Rock’s price over the Individual Cremation Rock.

Are Cremation Stones Worth the Cost?

There are several ways to memorialize your departed loved one. Cremation stones offer a unique way to do so. There is no “wrong way” when choosing an everlasting tribute to your departed loved one. While many prefer to scatter ashes into the elements, some prefer a tangible, lasting memorial. Cremation stones can be placed in several prominent locations within your home, such as a nightstand, mantle, or desk, taken with you, placed in a garden, etc. Wherever you are in your home, you can be comforted by the presence of your sacred memorial. The exquisite designs of glass cremation stones can be mesmerizing. With radiant colors and brilliant white ashes, the glass can capture the sunlight for a breathtaking appearance. Like all cremation keepsakes, cremation stones provide comfort and solace for those grieving. 

The Living Urn specializes in high-quality cremation keepsakes, jewelry, and urns. Whether you choose our Living Stones, Living Glass Cremation touchstones or another meaningful cremation piece, we’re here to help you through your grief. Visit The Living Urn to find a cremation piece that’s right for you!