A gentle guide to choosing the right material for your keepsake

Every keepsake begins with something meaningful — a small piece of a moment, a memory, or a connection you want to carry close.

I work with a range of inclusions, and each one behaves differently once it is held within the permanent, protective bonding method used to form your keepsake stone.

This guide is here to help you understand how different materials behave, how different materials behave and what to expect throughout the process.

How Much Should I Send?

Only a small amount is required.

For ashes, hair, fur, whiskers, or similar materials, approximately 1/4 teaspoon is usually sufficient unless otherwise discussed.

Any unused inclusions will be returned with your completed piece.

Please only send a portion you would feel comfortable parting with during transit. While tracked postage is used and loss is uncommon, sentimental materials cannot generally be insured by postal carriers and should never represent the entirety of what you have.

Information about Collection Kits, preparing materials, and returning inclusions can be found in the Shipping Policy.

What Happens When My Inclusions Arrive?

Once your inclusions arrive at the studio:

  • They are matched to the unique order number already assigned to your order and Collection Kit.
  • They are checked against the information provided.
  • They are photographed and documented.
  • They are stored individually.
  • A confirmation email is sent.
  • Your piece enters the creation queue.

Every order is handled separately to ensure inclusions remain identifiable throughout the entire creation process.

Your materials are never mixed, combined, or handled alongside another client's inclusions.

Cremation Ashes (Recommended)

Cremation ashes are the most stable and reliable inclusion.

They are:

  • dry and non‑reactive
  • naturally long‑lasting
  • ideal for both Simple Moments and Precious Moments pieces
  • suitable for very small or delicate settings

Cremation ashes hold their appearance beautifully and do not shift, mould, or discolour.

Once cremation ashes are fused within the keepsake stone, they naturally deepen in tone. This gentle darkening is completely normal — similar to how ashes appear when they become slightly damp — and does not affect the safety or stability of the inclusion.

Each stone settles into its own soft, natural pattern, making every piece quietly unique.

If you have ashes available, they are generally the most dependable choice.

Hair, Fur & Whiskers

Hair, fur, and whiskers can create a soft, meaningful look, but they behave differently depending on the design.

They are:

  • stable and non-reactive
  • suitable for most keepsake stones
  • more challenging in very small shapes
  • sometimes visually uneven when trimmed

Because hair, fur, and whiskers must be cut to fit inside the setting, trimmed edges may be visible, particularly in smaller designs.

Fine, soft, or very short strands may appear more scattered once bonded within the keepsake stone.

These materials can create beautiful and deeply personal pieces, but the final appearance is usually more organic and less controlled than cremation ashes.

Flowers & Organic Materials

Flowers and other organic materials can create beautiful and highly personal keepsakes, but they are also the least predictable inclusion type.

Even when carefully dried, organic materials may:

  • fade or lose colour over time
  • react to UV exposure
  • shift or break down slightly within the bonding material
  • behave unpredictably due to natural oils or residual moisture

For this reason, cremation ashes and hair are generally the most stable options.

However, if flowers, petals, leaves, or similar materials carry special meaning, I am always happy to discuss their suitability and help you make an informed decision.

Natural change is part of the character of these materials and should be expected over time.

Fabric & Threads

Fabric behaves similarly to hair and fur.

It is important to understand that:

  • it must be cut to fit within the setting
  • only small fibres or threads can be included
  • the original shape or weave will not remain intact
  • colours may soften slightly once bonded

Fabric can be a lovely option when it carries emotional significance, but the final appearance will usually be subtle and textural rather than immediately recognisable.

Other Meaningful Materials

Many other materials can be included successfully, including:

  • feathers
  • handwritten fragments
  • paper
  • sand
  • soil
  • ribbon
  • small textile fibres
  • other meaningful keepsakes

If you are considering something not listed here, please get in touch.

Many materials can be incorporated successfully, but some require additional preparation and others may not be suitable for long-term preservation.

I am always happy to discuss options before you place your order or send your inclusions.

Choosing the Right Inclusion

There is no right or wrong choice.

Some people choose cremation ashes because of their stability and subtle appearance. Others choose hair, fur, flowers, fabric, or another meaningful material because of the connection it represents.

The most important consideration is not how an inclusion looks, but what it means to you.

If you are unsure which material may be most suitable for a particular design, you are always welcome to get in touch before ordering.

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