The Cost of Turning Ashes into Diamonds

A Comprehensive Guide to the Cost and Meaning of Memorial Diamonds

The decision to transform the ashes of a loved one into a diamond is a profound choice. It is a way to create an everlasting emblem of remembrance, a tangible piece of beauty that holds a deep, personal significance. This guide explores the process, the cost, and the meaning behind turning ashes into diamonds. We provide a detailed look at the companies that offer this service, the factors that determine the price, and the science that makes it all possible. This information will help you understand this unique memorial option.

Part 1: Understanding Memorial Diamonds

A memorial diamond is a lab-grown diamond created from the carbon extracted from cremated ashes or hair. It is physically and chemically identical to a natural diamond. The only difference is its origin. One comes from the earth, and the other comes from a personal and cherished source of carbon.

The Emotional Significance

For many, a memorial diamond is more than just a gemstone. It is a way to keep a loved one close. Traditional urns can feel distant, and burial plots can be difficult to visit. A diamond, often set in a piece of jewelry like a ring or a pendant, can be worn every day. It offers a constant, physical connection to the person who has passed.

This form of remembrance provides a sense of comfort and permanence. It transforms the remains, which for some can be a painful reminder of loss, into an object of beauty and light. The process itself can be a healing journey. It offers a way to focus on creating a positive and lasting tribute.

People choose memorial diamonds for many reasons. Some are drawn to the idea of creating a family heirloom that can be passed down through generations. This allows the story and memory of the loved one to be shared with future family members. Others see it as a more personal and intimate way to honor a life than a traditional funeral or burial. The diamond becomes a symbol of a unique life and an enduring bond.

The popularity of memorial diamonds has been growing as more people seek personalized and meaningful ways to remember their loved ones. The ability to customize the diamond in size, cut, and sometimes color, allows for a tribute that truly reflects the individual's spirit and personality.

Part 2: The Science of Creating a Diamond from Ashes

The transformation of ashes into a diamond is a remarkable feat of science. It replicates the natural process of diamond formation that occurs deep within the Earth's mantle. Companies have refined this process to create a genuine diamond from the carbon present in cremated remains.

Step 1: Carbon Extraction and Purification

The journey begins with the cremated ashes. An adult human body is about 18% carbon. During cremation, much of this carbon is released as carbon dioxide. However, a small percentage, typically between 1% and 4%, remains in the ashes. While this may seem like a small amount, it is more than enough carbon to create one or even multiple diamonds. Most companies require about one pound (around 500 grams) of ashes.

The first step in the laboratory is to analyze the ashes to determine their chemical composition. The carbon must then be isolated. This is a complex chemical process. The ashes are placed in a controlled environment where various chemical processes and filtration methods are used to separate the carbon from other elements.

The extracted carbon is then subjected to intense heat in a vacuum environment. This process is called purification. The goal is to remove any remaining impurities. The carbon is heated to very high temperatures, causing non-carbon elements to vaporize. This process is repeated until the carbon reaches a purity of at least 99.99%. This highly purified carbon is then converted into graphite, which has the necessary structure for diamond synthesis.

Step 2: The High-Pressure, High-Temperature (HPHT) Process

Once the purified carbon is in graphite form, it is ready for the diamond synthesis machine. This machine, known as a High-Pressure, High-Temperature (HPHT) press, mimics the conditions under which natural diamonds are formed. The graphite is placed into a growth cell at the core of the press.

Inside the HPHT press, the graphite is subjected to immense pressure, often around 870,000 pounds per square inch. At the same time, it is heated to extreme temperatures, typically between 2,100 and 2,600 degrees Fahrenheit. These intense conditions cause the carbon atoms in the graphite to rearrange themselves into the crystal lattice structure of a diamond.

A tiny diamond seed, a microscopic natural or lab-grown diamond crystal, is often placed in the growth cell. This seed acts as a template, providing a foundation for the carbon atoms to bond to and build upon. The diamond crystal grows, atom by atom, over a period of weeks or months.

Step 3: Diamond Growth and Formation

The length of time the carbon spends in the HPHT press determines the size of the diamond. The longer the growth period, the larger the carat weight of the final stone. The unique chemical composition of the ashes can also influence the diamond's characteristics.

For example, the element boron, which may be present in the ashes, can give the diamond a natural blue hue. The amount of boron will determine the intensity of the blue color. Nitrogen content in the carbon source typically results in a yellow or amber-colored diamond. Companies can control the environment within the HPHT press to a certain degree to achieve different colors or to create a colorless diamond.

Creating a colorless diamond often requires the most extensive purification process to remove nearly all other elements, particularly nitrogen. This makes colorless diamonds one of the more expensive options.

Step 4: Cutting and Polishing

After the growth process is complete, the HPHT press is cooled, and the growth cell is removed. Inside, embedded in molten metal, is a rough diamond. This rough diamond is carefully extracted and cleaned, often in an acid bath.

At this stage, the diamond does not yet have the sparkle and fire associated with a finished gemstone. It must be cut and polished by skilled diamond cutters. The cutters analyze the rough diamond to determine the best way to shape it to maximize its brilliance and size. They follow a precise plan to cut facets into the diamond, which will reflect and refract light.

Popular cuts include the round brilliant, which is known for its exceptional sparkle, as well as princess, emerald, radiant, and heart shapes. The cutting and polishing process is a delicate art that requires great precision and expertise. It can significantly impact the final beauty and value of the diamond.

Scientific Verification and Certification

Reputable memorial diamond companies provide a certificate of authenticity with each diamond. This certificate guarantees that the diamond was created from the provided ashes or hair. It also details the 4Cs of the diamond: carat, color, cut, and clarity.

Many companies offer certification from independent gemological laboratories like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI). These institutions can verify that the memorial diamond is a true diamond with the same chemical and physical properties as a natural one. A lab report from GIA or IGI will confirm the diamond's origin as laboratory-grown and will provide an objective grading of its qualities.

Some companies also offer a tracking process, where a unique reference number is assigned to the ashes upon arrival at the lab. This number is used to audit the entire process, ensuring that the diamond returned to the family is indeed the one created from their loved one's remains. Some companies, like Algordanza, even offer a laser inscription on the diamond's girdle with this reference number, which is only visible under magnification.

Are Memorial Diamonds Real Diamonds?

Yes, memorial diamonds are real diamonds. They are not diamond simulants like cubic zirconia or moissanite. They have the same carbon-based crystal structure, hardness (a 10 on the Mohs scale), and brilliance as diamonds mined from the earth. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States has clear guidelines for the marketing of lab-grown diamonds, and memorial diamonds fall under this category. They are simply diamonds with a different, and very personal, origin story.

Part 3: The Cost of Turning Ashes into Diamonds: A Detailed Breakdown

The cost of a memorial diamond is a significant consideration for many families. The price can range from under two thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. This wide range is due to several key factors that determine the final cost of the diamond. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and your wishes for the memorial tribute.

The primary factors that influence the price of a memorial diamond are its size (carat), color, and cut. The company you choose and any additional services, such as jewelry settings, will also affect the overall cost.

Factor 1: Carat Weight (Size)

The carat weight of a diamond is the most significant driver of its price. In the world of diamonds, a carat is a unit of weight equal to 200 milligrams. As the carat size increases, so does the price, and the increase is not linear. A one-carat diamond will cost significantly more than twice the price of a half-carat diamond.

This is because larger diamonds are rarer and more difficult to grow. They require more carbon, a longer time in the HPHT press, and more stable conditions during the growth process. The risk of flaws or inclusions also increases with size, making large, high-quality lab-grown diamonds a more complex undertaking.

Here is a general overview of how carat weight can affect the price of a memorial diamond. These prices are approximate and can vary widely between companies and based on other factors like color.

Companies often price their diamonds in ranges (e.g., 0.25 - 0.29 ct) because the exact final weight of the diamond cannot be guaranteed at the start of the growth process.

Factor 2: Diamond Color

The color of a memorial diamond also plays a crucial role in its cost. The natural color of a diamond grown from ashes, without any purification to remove other elements, is typically amber or yellow. This is due to the presence of nitrogen in the human body.

• Amber/Yellow: These are often the most affordable color options because they require the least amount of modification to the natural chemical composition of the extracted carbon. The color can range from a light, sunny yellow to a deep, rich amber.

• Blue: Blue memorial diamonds are created due to the presence of boron in the carbon source. Companies can control the environment in the HPHT press to facilitate the incorporation of boron into the diamond's crystal lattice. The resulting color can be a pale sky blue, a vibrant royal blue, or a deep navy. Blue diamonds are generally more expensive than yellow diamonds due to the more controlled process required.

• Colorless (White): Colorless diamonds are typically the most expensive. To achieve a colorless stone, the carbon must undergo an extensive and meticulous purification process to remove nearly all traces of nitrogen and other elements that can cause color. This added complexity and time contribute to the higher price point.

• Other Colors (Red, Green, Pink): Some companies offer other fancy colors like red, green, or pink. These colors are often achieved through a combination of the initial carbon purification and post-growth treatments, such as irradiation or annealing. These processes add to the complexity and cost, making these colors some of the priciest options available.

Here is a sample price comparison for a 0.50-carat diamond in different colors to illustrate the difference:

Factor 3: Diamond Cut

The cut of a diamond refers to how it has been shaped and faceted. The cut is what determines a diamond's brilliance, fire, and sparkle. While the cut may have a less dramatic impact on the price than carat or color, it is still a significant factor.

• Round Brilliant: This is the most popular and often the most expensive cut. Its 58 facets are mathematically calculated to maximize light return, making it the most brilliant of all the cuts. It also results in the most waste of the original rough diamond, which contributes to its higher cost.

• Princess Cut: This is a square or rectangular cut with sharp corners. It is a popular choice for a more modern look and is generally less expensive than a round brilliant cut of the same weight because it wastes less of the rough diamond.

• Emerald Cut: This is a rectangular step-cut with cropped corners. It emphasizes the clarity of the diamond rather than its sparkle. It is a sophisticated choice and can be more affordable than a round brilliant cut.

• Other Fancy Cuts: Other shapes like oval, heart, pear, or radiant are also available. The cost of these cuts can vary depending on their complexity and the demand for them.

Some companies may include the price of a standard cut, like a round brilliant, in their base price, while others may charge an additional fee for different cuts. Some may also offer the option of receiving the diamond in its rough, uncut form for a lower price.

Price Comparison of Real Companies

To give you a more concrete idea of the cost, here is a comparison of starting prices and general price ranges from several well-known memorial diamond companies. Please note that these prices are subject to change and are for the diamond only, not including a jewelry setting.

Eterneva:

• Known for its personalized customer journey and high-profile collaborations.
• Focuses on creating a celebratory experience of remembrance.
• Starting prices are around $3,000 for a small accent diamond.
• A 0.50-carat colorless or blue diamond can be in the range of $7,000 - $9,000.
• Prices can go up to $50,000 or more for very large, high-quality diamonds.

LifeGem:

• One of the original companies in the memorial diamond industry, founded in 2001.
• Offers a wide range of colors and sizes.
• Prices start at approximately $2,000 for a petite yellow diamond.
• A 0.50-carat colorless or blue diamond is typically in the $6,000 - $8,000 range.
• Offers discounts for multiple diamonds created from the same ashes.

Algordanza:

• A Swiss company known for its precision, quality, and ISO certification.
• Offers a detailed tracking process and certificate of authenticity.
• Prices for a cut 0.25-carat diamond start around $4,000 - $4,500.
• A 0.50-carat cut diamond is in the range of $8,500 - $9,500.
• Offers the option of a rough diamond for a lower price.

LONITÉ:

• Another Swiss-based company with a focus on technology and transparency.
• Provides detailed scientific reports on the diamond's origin.
• Starting prices are among the more competitive, beginning at around $1,400 for a 0.25-carat amber diamond.
• A 0.50-carat colorless diamond is approximately $5,000 - $6,000.
• Prices can reach over $40,000 for large, colorless diamonds.

Heart In Diamond:

• Known for offering a wide variety of jewelry settings along with their diamonds.
• Often promotes more affordable options.
• Claims to have some of the lowest prices, with small diamonds starting as low as $750.
• A 0.50-carat colorless diamond could be in the range of $4,000 - $6,000.

Hidden Costs and What to Look For

When comparing prices, it is important to understand what is included in the quote. Ask about:

• Shipping and Insurance: Is the cost of securely shipping the ashes to the lab and the final diamond back to you included?
• Certification: Is an independent gemological report from GIA or IGI included, or is there an extra charge for it?
• Taxes and Duties: Are all applicable taxes and import duties included in the price?
• Jewelry Setting: The price of the setting is almost always separate. The cost of a ring or pendant can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the metal and design.

Comparing the Cost to a Traditional Funeral

When considering the cost of a memorial diamond, it can be helpful to compare it to the cost of a traditional funeral and burial. In the United States, the median cost of a funeral with a viewing and burial is around $8,000 to $10,000, and this does not include the cost of a cemetery plot, headstone, or grave marker, which can add several thousand dollars more to the total.

A cremation is a less expensive option, typically ranging from $1,500 to $4,000. If you choose cremation, the cost of a memorial diamond would be an additional expense. However, many families find that the cost of a beautiful, lasting memorial diamond is comparable to, or even less than, the total cost of a traditional burial. It offers a different kind of value—a personal, portable, and permanent tribute.

Part 4: Choosing a Reputable Memorial Diamond Company

Choosing a company to create a memorial diamond is a decision that requires trust. You are entrusting them with the precious remains of a loved one and with the creation of a deeply meaningful tribute. It is important to do your research and select a company that is transparent, reputable, and provides a high level of customer care.

In-Depth Company Profiles

Eterneva

• History and Mission: Founded by Adelle Archer after she lost a close friend and mentor. Archer wanted to create a more positive and celebratory way to remember a loved one. Eterneva's mission is to change the cultural conversation around death and grief, focusing on legacy and remembrance. The company gained significant attention after a successful appearance on the television show "Shark Tank," where they secured an investment from Mark Cuban.
• Process and Uniqueness: Eterneva is known for its highly personalized and transparent customer journey. They provide regular updates, including photos and videos, at each stage of the diamond creation process. This allows families to feel connected to the journey. They place a strong emphasis on storytelling, sharing the stories of the lives they are honoring.
• Reputation and Reviews: Eterneva has a very positive reputation for its customer service and the quality of its experience. Customers frequently praise the compassionate and communicative approach of the Eterneva team.
• Certification: They provide a certificate of authenticity and can arrange for GIA certification for their diamonds.

LifeGem

• History and Mission: LifeGem is one of the pioneers of the memorial diamond industry. Founded in 2001 by the VandenBiesen and Herro brothers, they were among the first to commercialize the process of creating diamonds from ashes. Their mission is to provide a unique and timeless memorial option that can become a treasured family heirloom.
• Process and Uniqueness: As one of the most established companies, LifeGem has a long track record and a well-defined process. They offer a wide variety of colors and sizes and have extensive experience in the field. They also offer plans for creating multiple diamonds for family members.
• Reputation and Reviews: LifeGem has built a solid reputation over its two decades in business. They have a network of partners in the funeral industry, which speaks to their established presence.
• Certification: LifeGem provides its own certificate of authenticity and can also provide independent certification from gemological labs.

Algordanza

• History and Mission: Algordanza is a Swiss company founded by Rinaldo Willy. The name "Algordanza" means "remembrance" in the Rhaeto-Romanic language of Switzerland. The company's mission is to provide a precise, respectful, and beautiful form of remembrance, grounded in Swiss quality and reliability.
• Process and Uniqueness: Algordanza is the only memorial diamond producer in the world that is ISO-certified, which means their processes are held to high international standards. They are known for their meticulous tracking system, assigning a unique reference number to each case and even offering a laser inscription of this number on the diamond. They primarily produce blueish diamonds, a natural result of boron content, and they do not artificially color their diamonds.
• • Reputation and Reviews: Algordanza is highly regarded for its professionalism, transparency, and the quality of its diamonds. Their Swiss origin is often associated with precision and trustworthiness.
• Certification: They provide a detailed Algordanza certificate guaranteeing the diamond's origin and characteristics. The entire process is also notarized.

LONITÉ

• History and Mission: LONITÉ is another Swiss-based company that emphasizes the scientific and technical aspects of diamond creation. Their mission is to provide a scientifically verifiable and beautiful memorial that honors a loved one's life.
• Process and Uniqueness: LONITÉ is transparent about its technology and provides detailed reports on the carbon purification and diamond synthesis process. They offer a wide range of colors and sizes, with competitive pricing, especially for their amber diamonds. They also highlight their 4N purity (99.99%) carbon for creating high-quality diamonds.
• Reputation and Reviews: LONITÉ has a good reputation for its technical expertise and the quality of its gems. Some online discussions have raised questions about their marketing practices, but many customers report positive experiences. It is important for potential customers to communicate directly with the company to address any concerns.
• Certification: LONITÉ offers its own certificate of authenticity and can also provide reports from GIA or IGI.

A Checklist for Selecting a Company

When you are ready to choose a company, use this checklist to guide your decision:

• Transparency: Is the company open and clear about its entire process? Do they explain the science in a way you can understand? Do they provide clear and upfront pricing with no hidden fees?
• Tracking and Guarantees: What systems do they have in place to track the ashes and guarantee that the diamond you receive is from your loved one? Ask about unique reference numbers, laser inscriptions, and documentation.
• Certification: Do they offer independent certification from a reputable gemological institute like GIA or IGI? This provides an objective, third-party verification of the diamond's authenticity and quality.
• Customer Service: How does the company communicate with its clients? Read reviews and testimonials to get a sense of their level of compassion, responsiveness, and support. When you contact them, are they patient and willing to answer all of your questions?
• Location and Lab: Where is the company based, and where is the laboratory located? Some companies may be based in one country but have their lab in another. A reputable company will be transparent about this.
• Customization Options: What options do they offer for diamond size, color, and cut? Do they offer jewelry settings? Make sure their offerings align with your vision for the memorial diamond.
• Timeline: How long does the process take? The average timeline is between 6 to 12 months, but it can vary. The company should provide a clear estimate.

Questions to Ask a Memorial Diamond Provider

• Can you walk me through your entire process, from receiving the ashes to the final delivery of the diamond?
• What is your tracking system to ensure the integrity of the ashes?
• What kind of certification do you provide? Is independent GIA or IGI certification included or available?
• What is the total cost, including all fees, shipping, and taxes?
• Can I visit your facility or laboratory?
• What happens to any unused ashes?
• What is your policy if something goes wrong during the process?
• Can you provide references from past clients or funeral homes you have worked with?

Taking the time to research and ask these questions will give you peace of mind and help you choose a company that will honor your loved one with the care and respect they deserve.

Part 5: The Emotional Journey and Aftercare

The creation of a memorial diamond is not just a technical process; it is an emotional journey. For many, it becomes a significant part of the grieving and healing process.

Personal Stories and Healing

Many people who have chosen to create a memorial diamond share that the process gave them a positive focus during a time of immense grief. Instead of dwelling solely on the loss, they were able to participate in the creation of something beautiful and lasting. The regular updates from companies like Eterneva can create a sense of connection and anticipation, transforming a period of waiting into a journey of remembrance.

Receiving the final diamond is often a deeply moving experience. It is the culmination of months of waiting and a tangible connection to a cherished memory. Holding the diamond for the first time can bring a sense of peace and closeness that an urn on a mantelpiece may not provide. It is a private, personal, and portable tribute that can be a source of strength and comfort for years to come.

Setting the Diamond in Jewelry

Most people choose to set their memorial diamond in a piece of jewelry. This allows them to keep their loved one with them always. The most common choices are rings and pendants.

• Rings: A memorial diamond ring is a constant presence on your hand. It is a daily reminder of your loved one and the bond you shared. When choosing a ring setting, consider your lifestyle. If you are very active, a more protective setting like a bezel setting might be a good choice. A classic prong setting will maximize the diamond's sparkle.

• Pendants: A pendant keeps the diamond close to your heart. It is a more discreet option than a ring for some, and it can be worn on a chain of any length. Pendants are also a versatile choice, as they can be worn with many different outfits and for many different occasions.

• Other Jewelry: Memorial diamonds can also be set in earrings, bracelets, or even cufflinks. The choice of jewelry is a very personal one and should reflect your own style and how you wish to carry your loved one's memory.

When choosing a setting, you will also need to select a metal. Yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and platinum are all popular choices. The metal should complement the color of the diamond and your personal preference.

Caring for Your Memorial Diamond

A memorial diamond is as durable as any natural diamond, but it still requires care to keep it looking its best.

• Cleaning: To clean your diamond jewelry, you can use a soft-bristled brush and a mild solution of soap and water. Gently scrub the diamond and the setting, then rinse with clean water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. You can also purchase commercial jewelry cleaning solutions.
• Professional Cleaning and Inspection: It is a good idea to have your diamond jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected by a jeweler at least once a year. The jeweler can check the setting to ensure the prongs are tight and the diamond is secure.
• Storage: When you are not wearing your diamond jewelry, store it in a separate pouch or a fabric-lined jewelry box to prevent it from scratching other pieces or being scratched by them.

The Legacy of a Memorial Diamond

One of the most compelling aspects of a memorial diamond is its potential to become a family heirloom. A diamond is forever. It can be passed down from generation to generation, carrying the story of the person it represents. This creates a legacy that transcends time, connecting future generations to their heritage in a unique and beautiful way.

A memorial diamond is more than a product; it is a symbol of love, a testament to a life lived, and a beacon of memory that will shine for centuries to come. It is a choice that offers a path to healing and a way to ensure that a loved one is never truly forgotten.

FAQs

How much ash is needed to make a diamond? Most companies require about 1 pound (500 grams) of cremated ashes to create a diamond. Some may be able to work with less. The average adult human produces between 5 and 10 pounds of ashes, so there is typically more than enough.

Can you use hair instead of ashes? Yes, most companies can also create a diamond from hair. Hair is rich in carbon. Typically, about 10 grams of hair are needed. It is also possible to combine hair and ashes.

How long does it take to turn ashes into a diamond? The process usually takes between 6 to 12 months. The exact timeline depends on the company, the size and color of the diamond being created, and the lab's schedule. Larger diamonds require a longer growth period.

Are memorial diamonds flawless? Like natural diamonds, memorial diamonds can have inclusions. These are tiny imperfections within the diamond. The clarity of the diamond depends on the purification process and the unique chemical makeup of the ashes. Most memorial diamonds have a clarity grade of VS (Very Slightly Included) or VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included), meaning any inclusions are not visible to the naked eye.

Can you make a diamond from the ashes of a pet? Yes, the process for creating a memorial diamond from the ashes of a pet is the same as it is for human ashes. Many people choose this option to honor their beloved animal companions.

Can you combine ashes from multiple people? Yes, it is possible to combine the ashes of two or more loved ones to create a single diamond or a set of diamonds. This can be a beautiful way to symbolize their eternal bond.

What if the ashes do not contain enough carbon? In the rare case that the provided ashes do not contain enough carbon to create a diamond of the desired size, some companies may be able to supplement it with a generic carbon source. Reputable companies will be transparent about this and will discuss the options with you. Alternatively, personal items like letters or photographs can sometimes be used as an additional carbon source.

Can I get my memorial diamond certified? Yes, most reputable companies offer certification. This includes their own certificate of authenticity and often the option for an independent report from a well-respected gemological laboratory like the GIA or IGI. This report will confirm that your stone is a real, lab-grown diamond and will detail its specific qualities.