What is a memorial diamond?
This post will help you understand some of the details about the creation of memorial diamonds. But first, what exactly is a memorial diamond? To put it simply, a memorial diamond is created from the cremated ashes of a loved one, or even a pet, if you choose to create a memorial for your pet instead.
First, about 500g of the cremated ashes are collected and the carbon in the ashes is carefully and meticulously extracted. This extracted carbon is then subjected to high heat and pressure to create the raw materials needed in order to make an ash diamond¹.
Why should you make a memorial diamond?
Memorial Diamonds are a new form of burial.
A synthetic diamond such as a memorial diamond is conflict-free, more environmentally friendly, and typically 15% to 30% cheaper than a natural diamond². Additionally, creating a memorial diamond as a memento of your loved one is a beautiful gesture that can be cherished forever.
And if you’re after that special something, thanks to the nature of a memorial diamond, the creation of one is infinitely customisable. Customers can create beautiful bespoke diamonds by choosing anything from the cut of the diamond to the carat weight.
The memorial diamond can also be specified to be made into different forms of accessories such as a necklace or ring. A memorial diamond serves as one of the most intricate and intimate ways to memorialise your loved ones. In addition, for some of our customers, having it has also aided in the grieving process.
In situations where the cremated ashes are incomplete or insufficient, such as in the passing of a young child, Algordanza has developed a special type of service called “Stailas”. A Stailas diamond still uses all the extracted carbon collected from the cremated ashes to create the diamond. If that amount is insufficient, customers can provide Algordanza with memorabilia such as clothes, favourite books, shoes, these can all be used as long as the memorabilia is made of natural, combustible materials. Hair from siblings or parents is also recommended as an additional source of carbon to be used in the creation of the diamond.
Radiant Cut Memorial Diamond
Regardless of whether the memorial diamond is a Stailas diamond or a regular memorial diamond, the quality of the finished product is still in line with Algordanza’s strict standards.
How long does it take to make a memorial diamond?
There are multiple steps when it comes to the creation of your memorial diamond.
1. The cremated ashes and deposit are collected from the customer, along with all required documentations and order form.
2. The carbon from the cremated ashes is then extracted.
3. The extracted carbon goes through the process of turning into a diamond bespoke to the customer’s requests.
4. The finished memorial diamond is then delivered to the customer.
Due to the incredibly complex process that is the creation of a memorial diamond, the production timeline typically takes about 4-8 months from the date the cremated ashes or carbon source is received and the receipt of the pre-payment. Larger memorial diamonds may take longer, from 8-12 months.
Upon request, a schedule of the different stages of the creation process can be provided for those who wish to find out more. Bespoke details such as laser inscription and jewellery mounting services would also increase the time required.
However, that timeframe is an estimate, and in the case of more complex products, it may take longer. The extended production timeline is to ensure that the quality of the final product is in line with Algordanza’s and most importantly, your expectations.
To learn more about memorial diamonds, please review our definitive guide to memorial diamonds.