As a goldsmith, I often receive requests for deeply personal and symbolic pieces of jewellery. Among these are requests to incorporate the ashes of a loved one into the gold itself—a poignant way to keep them and their memory close. However, after much careful consideration and consultation with fellow goldsmiths, I have chosen not to offer this option.
The idea of merging the physical essence of a loved one with the beauty of gold is deeply moving. Yet, the reality of the process is more complex. Gold, as a material, undergoes intense heat during smelting, a necessary step to transform gold into the forms that become the pieces I craft. After discussing with peers and experts in the field, it became clear that the ashes would not survive this process in the way one might hope. Rather than being combined within the gold, the ashes would likely disperse, becoming lost in the process. This means they would merely touch the gold briefly, without being preserved within it as intended.
Beyond the technical aspects, there’s another consideration—one that speaks to the longevity and integrity of the pieces I create. Some may suggest combining ashes with resin as an alternative, to then be set into a gold setting. While resin can be used to encapsulate ashes, it comes with its own set of challenges. Resin, unlike gold, does not have the same enduring qualities. Over time, resin (a form of plastic) can discolour, degrade, or crack, potentially compromising the integrity of the piece. For me, the idea of such a cherished piece slowly losing its beauty or structural soundness is troubling. There is nothing that can be done to repair this. This then leaves you with a difficult situation of what to do with the piece, which can not be recused, recycled and is none biodegrabable.
I believe that jewellery, especially when it holds such deep emotional significance, should be created to stand the test of time. My commitment is to craft pieces that remain beautiful, strong, and meaningful for generations. This commitment is why I choose to work exclusively with materials like gold and responsibly sourced gems that can withstand the passage of time, both physically and symbolically.
I understand the desire to physically incorporate a loved one’s ashes into a piece of jewellery, I have therefore choosen to offer a secret compartment behind a stone to house some of your loved ones ashes working with gemstones that captures their spirit. Or by creating a sectret compartment within a band.
Ultimately, my goal is to create heirlooms that tell a story, that connect us to the past, and that can be cherished by future generations. Each piece I craft is a reflection of that philosophy, rooted in eco-conscious practices, the beauty of imperfection, and the deep respect I have for the materials I work with.
I hope that this explanation provides clarity and insight into why I’ve chosen this path. It’s not a decision made lightly, but one rooted in my dedication to honest, purposeful craftsmanship and the desire to create lasting, meaningful jewellery for each of my customers.
Thank you for trusting me with your stories and for allowing me to be a part of your journey.
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