How to Open a Keepsake Urn

Keepsake urns are much smaller in size than regular urns as they will only hold a portion of the cremated remains. This allows for the ashes to be shared amongst multiple family members or kept in different rooms in the house. Keepsake urns come in a variety of styles, shapes, and designs. Many people opt for keepsake urns in the shape of jewelry such as keychains or necklaces so that they can keep a passed loved one close to them during their day-to-day activities.

When it comes to opening a keepsake urn, it all depends on the design and composition of the urn. However, most keepsake urns will open similarly to their larger counterparts.

Types of Keepsake Urns

Be careful when choosing your type of keepsake urn as some are quite fragile and can break easily.

• Ceramics This is the most common type of keepsake urn. One great thing about a ceramic urn is that it can easily be painted, which allows for many customizable options.
• Porcelain These have a smooth, glossy surface.
• Stainless steel There is a growing interest in this type of urn as stainless steel allows the urn to be easily cleaned, they are unbreakable, and they allow for engraving or etching. Similar to this is the bronze or brass option.
• Wood Wood is sturdy and also has a natural finish.
• Glass or crystal Some of the most eye-catching and stunning urns.
• Marble One of the most classy options as it represents immortality because of its sleek look and longevity.

Reasons for Opening a Keepsake Urn

There are many legitimate reasons to want to open a keepsake urn, such as to transfer the ashes to a larger urn, to scatter the ashes, or further divide the ashes amongst family members. Aside from that, most urns will just have a lid that you can remove, though keepsake urns will usually be sealed with epoxy or some kind of wax. In that case, use nail polish remover or similar substance to dissolve the epoxy and then gently wiggle the lid until it comes off.

Whatever the reasons are, it is always important to ensure that you are honoring your loved one's memory and their departing requests.