Small Urns For Ashes

The tradition of cremation has been a significant practice for many cultures and religions across the globe. As cremation becomes an increasingly popular choice for families honoring their loved ones, the use of urns has evolved to reflect both personal tastes and practical needs. Among the wide variety of urns available today, small urns for ashes have gained prominence for their distinct blend of sentimentality functionality, and design.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about small urns for ashes—what they are, their significance, styles, materials, and tips for selecting the right one.

What Are Small Urns for Ashes?

Small urns, sometimes referred to as keepsake urns, are specially designed to hold a portion of the cremated remains (also called cremains) of a loved one. These urns are much smaller than traditional full-size urns and are often used when families wish to divide the ashes among multiple family members or friends. The urns can also hold a symbolic amount of ashes for memorialization purposes.

Why Choose a Small Urn?

There are several reasons someone may opt for a small urn for ashes:

1. Shared Memorialization: In some families, it is common to divide the cremated remains among different family members. This allows multiple people to keep a small portion of their loved one's ashes close by, ensuring the deceased is remembered and honored in different homes.

2. Portability: Small urns are often portable and can easily be taken to different locations. Whether traveling for memorial ceremonies or simply relocating to a new home, these urns provide flexibility in keeping the loved one’s remains secure and close.

3. Affordability: Since smaller urns require less material, they tend to be more cost-effective than full-size urns. For families looking for affordable yet meaningful ways to honor their loved ones, small urns provide a more budget-friendly option.

4. Symbolic Significance: Some families prefer to keep a small portion of ashes in a cherished location, such as a favorite vacation spot or a garden. Small urns can represent the everlasting bond and memories shared with the deceased, even if most of the ashes are scattered or interred elsewhere.

Styles of Small Urns

Small urns come in a wide array of styles, reflecting both traditional and modern design aesthetics. Here are some popular categories:

1. Classic Designs: Many small urns maintain a classic, traditional look, often featuring simple, timeless shapes like vases or rounded containers. These urns may have intricate engravings or polished finishes in materials like brass, bronze, or marble.

2. Personalized Urns: Some small urns can be personalized with engravings, such as the deceased’s name, dates, or a personal message. Custom designs are available for those seeking a unique tribute, allowing the urn to reflect the loved one’s personality, hobbies, or passions.

3. Artistic Urns: Artistic urns are crafted as pieces of art, often blending beautiful shapes and colors to create a visually stunning keepsake. These can be made from glass, ceramic, or other artistic mediums and may resemble sculptures or abstract designs.

4. Miniature Companion Urns: These urns are designed for couples or loved ones who want to be memorialized together. They are often smaller versions of full-size companion urns and hold a portion of ashes from two individuals, signifying their eternal bond.

5. Religious and Cultural Urns: For those wishing to honor spiritual or cultural traditions, many small urns are adorned with religious symbols like crosses, om symbols, or angels. These designs allow families to integrate faith and belief into the memorialization process.