Honoring a Loved one and Nature
The term natural cremation urns is used quite often in the memorial industry in a number of different contexts. Since that can be confusing to a consumer, here are a few summaries of some things that websites, media and industry experts are often referring to when they talk about natural cremation urns. For a detailed guide on creating natural memorials, see How to Build a Garden Memorial for Cremated Ashes.
The Natural Urn Material
Probably the most obvious use of the tern natural cremation urns is in regard to materials used. Natural cremation urns, in this context, are made from substances produced naturally – such as granite and marble – rather than from materials such as fiberglass or steel. For example, consider the Transcend Bamboo Nature Cremation Urn or the Natural Wool Cremation Urn , which are both biodegradable and eco-friendly options.
But, that said, this context is not always as straightforward as it seems. Many who are talking about natural cremation urns in this regard would not necessarily have granite and marble in mind. They may actually be referring to an urn made of biodegradable materials – such as wood or even strong paper – that would disperse naturally among the elements over time. While long lasting granite and marble are, indeed, natural products, many who are interested in natural cremation urns are not necessarily interested in stone products that will stand up to the elements for the ages.
The Natural Urn Design
Interestingly, in some contexts, urns made from steel or other manmade materials can sometimes earn the moniker natural cremation urns. These types of urns are natural, not because of the materials, but rather, because of their design. These natural cremation urns earn their title because they are molded into the form of some nature scene or an animal of some sort. These types of urns can, of course, be made from stone or wood or some other natural material, but they can, equally, be made from plastic or steel. And they do not necessarily have to be traditional cremation urns, either. In fact many lines of metal cremation jewelry are marketed as natural cremation urns simply because they are molded into the shape of animals. They are urns in the respect that they can store ashes, but these are nothing like a traditional urn. And, referring to them as natural cremation urns may seem, at first glance, a misnomer, but, when one considers their artistic ties to the natural world, the moniker does, indeed, make sense.
The Use of Natural Urns
Natural cremation urns may also be intended for use outdoors. Some are biodegradable, designed to break down naturally in the environment, while others are made from durable metals intended for long-term display in natural settings. These permanent natural cremation urns are sometimes installed as tributes along favorite nature trails or in gardens. For more eco-friendly options, see Biodegradable Urns | Honoring a Loved One and Nature.
So, again, the term natural cremation urn’s many shades of meaning can be confusing – and even somewhat contradictory at times – but we hope this little guide clears things up a little for the next time you hear someone talk about natural cremation urns.