Cremation Diamonds Buyer’s Guide: What Should You Pay?
Written by Amy Gardner: Grief & Memorial Expert
Reviewed by Adam Binstock On August 21, 2022
Turning Ashes Into Diamonds
And over the past few years, Cremation Diamonds have become a very popular memorial option.
So what goes on when turning ashes into diamonds?
With so much interest among our readers, our memorial experts decided to take an in depth look into the industry.
So to help answer all your questions, we discuss everything from costs, the process, jewerly options, and more.
We also review some of the leading cremation diamond companies on the market.
The Process
You might wonder how exactly this miraculous transformation takes place.
How can human remains become a shiny diamond pendant or a pair of earrings?
As you can imagine, it’s by no means simple.
There’s a lot of care, thought and precision that goes into creating cremation diamonds.
Here’s how it all works.
Carbon Purification and Isolation
After cremation, carbon is still present in the bones and hair of your loved one.
Carbon makes up only about 0.5% to 4% of the remains, as most of it has burned off during the cremation process.
The first step in creating a diamond is to isolate the carbon. This can take many weeks. At the end of that time, you have a powdery carbon graphite substance, the starter material for diamonds.
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Graphite Conversion
During another lengthy process, the graphite powder is refined and filtered until it has reached 99.9% carbon.
Next, heat and pressure are applied causing the formation of a graphite structure.
We call this process “graphitization.”
Diamond Growth
In the most miraculous stage of all, machines are used to reproduce the exact conditions that exist deep beneath the earth’s surface.
Under the supervision of skilled scientists, the carbon is exposed to temperatures of around 2500 degrees Fahrenheit. Pressure is exerted of about 850,000 pounds per square inch.
Gradually, a diamond begins to grow.
It starts as some crystallization on the top of the carbon seed. Then over time this becomes a raw diamond.
The most magical thing about all this is that every person’s diamond will be unique.
Each individual requires a different mix of heat and pressure to grow a diamond, so the result is highly personalized. No two cremation diamonds are alike.
Rough Diamond Removal & Cleaning
The diamond is left inside a growing cell until it reaches the desired size. The longer you wait, the larger the diamond becomes.
Once the diamond is the right size, the cell is extracted from the environment created by the machines.
The rough diamond, encased in the middle of molten metal in the growing cell, is then cleaned in an acid bath.Cut and Polish
At this stage, the diamond is ready to be cut.
This process is essential, because it’s the cut of a diamond that determines its quality.
You can choose from a variety of cuts, such as emerald, radiant or brilliant. You may even choose to keep the diamond in its original rough diamond form.
The diamond will then be polished until it sparkles, no matter what form it is in.
Diamond Coloration
Diamonds can be left in their original color, or they can be colored. This is another opportunity to personalize the stone by choosing a color such as green, pink, red, or black.
In this process, different natural elements are combined with high energy to produce “color centers.”
The length of time required for coloration differs depending on the chosen color. For example, to create a completely opaque shade of black requires about three months.
Grading and Engraving
The diamond must be carefully inspected by an expert to ensure that it is 100% authentic. They examine cut, clarity and color to determine that is a real diamond.
Its authenticity will then be documented with a special certificate.
Finally, the diamond is laser engraved with the number of the order, as well as any requested personal message.
These engravings are only visible when using a microscope with 30 times magnification.
So no need to worry that they will diminish the unique and classy sparkle of your beautiful diamond.
Natural diamonds vs Human diamonds: What’s the difference?
Cremation diamonds are created in a lab. They are aesthetically very close to natural diamonds, with the same brilliance and shine.
While natural diamonds must be mined from deep under the earth, the creation of cremation diamonds pose no harm to our environment.
So Are Cremation Diamonds Real?
You may be asking: this sounds amazing, but how do I know that they’re real diamonds?
As much as you might love the idea of wearing your loved one’s remains as a beautiful diamond, it’s nice to know if they are actually real.
But there is a way to tell.
Certification
Your cremation diamonds will come with a certificate of authenticity to verify that it is a real diamond.
The entire process of transforming your loved one’s remains is carefully documented with a tracking log.
Various scientific reports are used to compare the trace elements and carbon isotopes, validating the authenticity of the diamond.
They also ensure that these elements match up with the ashes of an individual.
So you can rest assured that, although created in an artificial environment, your diamonds are a real and authentic representation of your loved one.
Diamonds Available
Cremation has increased at an astounding rate over the past decades.
With the discovery of producing these breathtaking diamonds, cremation jewelry has reached a whole new level. Cremation diamonds are now growing in popularity at a rapid pace.
You choose the diamond you prefer by what the diamond industry refers to as the four Cs. That stands for color, cut, clarity, and carats. Below is an explanation of each one.
Color
Man has determined how to copy the same natural diamond process using the boron in ashes and the hair. That along with other methods make the different hues.
There can be many different colors including brown, red, pink, gray, blue, green, violet, purple, yellow, orange, and of course clear.
Choosing a color
It is difficult to determine the exact color that your diamond will turn out.
Although you will choose the color family, cremation diamonds are made with the ashes of distinct individuals.
Each one will be unique to any other.
Cut: Designs available
Algordanza
When choosing your diamond, you will also select the cut that you prefer.
Immediately after a diamond is grown, it’s not yet shiny and sparkling as we see it. It must be cut and polished to achieve that appearance.
The person who cuts the diamond has to be very precise in order to attain the ultimate brilliance.
There are a wide variety of shapes from which you can choose. Some examples would be princess, brilliant, or radiant cut.
Carats
The size is measured by weight, which is more commonly referred to as the carats.
Large diamonds of multiple carats are rare. Therefore, the higher the carat, the more expensive the diamond. The color and clarity determines the value as well.
The size of a cremation diamond is determined by the length of time it is processed.
Again depending on the place you have it created, they can range from 0.03 carats up to 2.00 carats.
Clarity
Like natural ones, cremation diamonds have flaws.
The clarity is determined by the amount of flaws or inclusions that are visible. This is established by examining the stone with a 10 times magnification.
You’ve probably seen a jeweler look at a diamond with a magnifying instrument they put up to their eye. They are looking for flaws.
Costs
The cost of a cremation diamond can be anywhere from $750 all the way to upwards of $20k.
Why the huge difference you might ask? There’s a number of factors that will influence price:
- The size of the diamond (Carat Size)
- The color of the diamond
- The cut of the diamond
- The diamond’s clarity
- The level of customer service provided by the cremation diamond company
Family discounts
If you’re ordering more than one diamond, most companies offer a discount or package on multiple cremation diamonds.
What does this price include?
These prices are for the cremation diamond only. They do not include the setting.
Cremation diamond jewelry can be an expensive memorial, but many places offer payment arrangements.
Want an exact price?
To get an exact price for a memorial diamond, fill in the form below to speak with our experts.
FAQ's
Here are some other questions you might have about the process of turning your loved one’s remains into diamonds.
How long does it take to a cremation diamond to form?
Although the many stages can take several months to complete, that’s just a minute compared to the millions of years it takes the organic way.
How long it takes to produce a type of color: By Lonite
This is just a rough time estimate, in fact most of the companies say that the typical process is around 6 to 10 months. The time taken depends on both size and color of the diamond chosen.
How much ashes do you need to create a diamond?
Cremation diamonds can be created from 200 grams (8 ounces) of ashes or about 10 grams (0.4 ounces) of human hair.
Can you make diamonds from hair?
Hair is mostly composed of keratin, a protein which is bonded to a number of different elements.
Keratin is 50% carbon, which means it is completely possible to turn it into diamonds.
Like diamonds made from cremation ashes, they are considered synthetic or lab-grown diamonds. But they are still certified as authentic diamonds.
The process is similar to the one described for cremation ashes. First, the hair is exposed to high heat in order to isolate the carbon.
After a period of exposure to high heat and high pressure, the diamond seed begins to form on the hair.
Finally, the diamond will be cut and polished to its own unique brilliance.
How to Order a Cremation Diamond?
Any reputable cremation diamond company will give you a clear step-by-step process for ordering your diamond.
After contacting them, you will usually receive a welcome kit. This includes clear instructions, return postage and tools to safely send in your order.
Be sure to follow all directions carefully.
For Pets
The creators of cremation diamonds did not forget about our precious pets. Their ashes and hair are grown into beautiful diamonds as well.
The process and options are basically the same as for humans.
You will choose the four Cs just as with a human cremation diamond.
Jewelry such as rings, pendants, earrings, and you may consider having their name engraved into the setting.
Jewelry Available
Any type of jewelry can be made for cremation diamonds. You will either choose from the establishment that created the diamond or from a separate jeweler.
You will select the metal you desire such as gold, sterling silver, platinum, and also the style such as modern or vintage.
The most popular choices are pendants, rings, and earrings. Below, we’ll look at each one.
Pendant Necklace
A pendant setting is very popular and typically worn on a chain. This allows you to keep a part of your loved one close to your heart.
The possibilities for pendant designs are unlimited. Some people choose one that can also hold a small amount of the ashes.
You will also choose the design, such as a simple setting with a solitary diamond or a more extravagant option for multiple stones.
The setting can be purchased ready made or it can be custom made.
Rings
Cremation rings are probably the most popular. The choice of ring settings are unlimited as well. The selections such as silver, gold, and extravagance are the same as with pendants.
Many people choose a small ring that can be worn at all times. You will see it throughout the day and have fond memories about the one you lost.
Earrings
On your ears is another place where others will be dazzled when they look at you.
As you move and walk, the shine and sparkle of these beautiful diamonds will be noticed by all. You may prefer a solitaire setting or even dangle style earrings.
More Jewelry Ideas
Check out latest our “Ashes From Diamonds Jewelery” article from more ideas of what you can do.
Cremation Diamond Companies
The very first time cremation diamonds were offered on the market was back in 2001.
Since that time, a number of other companies have gotten in on this innovative method of remembrance.
Of course, the market is still somewhat limited due to the immense capital that a business must invest in order to offer the service.
The necessary equipment and machinery for this process cost around 1 million dollars.
Still, there are a few companies out there that can meet your needs.
Here’s how they stack up.
Eterneva
Best known for their famous appearance on the TV show Shark Tank, this Texas company is a fairly recent addition to the field.
It was founded in 2017 after the co-founder lost her mother to cancer and wanted a more meaningful way to remember her.
For this reason, this company has a unique personal element, sharing pictures and videos with you throughout the process.
A photo of your loved one is hung on the wall while your diamond is being completed, and his/her story may also be shared on social media with your permission.
It is one of the only places where you can request a custom memorial setting for your diamond.
If you want to know more about Eterneva, take a look at our recent review of the company.
LifeGem
A pioneer in the field, LifeGem was the first company of its kind, offering its first cremation diamonds back in 2001.
Their appearance on The Today Show back in 2002 marked the first time the public found out about the possibility of transforming a loved one’s remains into diamonds.
With this solid history, LifeGem stands by their products, giving you updates on the process of your loved one’s transformation.
LifeGem also holds the distinction of being one of the only cremation diamond companies in the US.
Besides producing cremation diamonds for people, LifeGem prides itself on producing beautiful diamonds out of the cremains of beloved pets.
LifeGem Review
Want some more information about LifeGem? Our memorial experts made a detailed LifeGem review which talks about their company, process, products, costs, and more.
Heart In Diamond
This company is based in the UK, but serves clients all over the world.
They stand apart for their personal approach, even willing to come directly to your home to take your order.
They stay in touch with you during the process, and hand deliver your cremation diamond to you when it’s ready.
For my information this company, check out our latest Heart In Diamond Review.
Algordanza
Based in Switzerland, Algordanza has the honor of being the only ISO certified maker of cremation diamonds.
Holding itself to high standards of Swiss craftsmanship, they give notarized certification to each individual step of the process.
You can find out more about this cremation diamond company in this Algordanza review.
Saint Diamonds
A US company based in Atlanta, Saint Diamonds have built a solid reputation based on respectful customer service, high quality standards, and competitive prices.
They use a sophisticated high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) process to turn your loved one’s ashes into diamonds.
They offer a wide range of diamond colors including yellow, green, black, red, blue and colorless. They also offer an extremely fast completion time (From 1-3 months) depending on the color of the diamond.
EverDear
EverDear stands out for its affordability and efficiency, producing beautiful cremation diamonds on an average of about 11 months.
You can begin the process after making a relatively modest 50% deposit. The remainder is paid upon completion of your diamond.
Lonite
Another Swiss company, the engineers at Lonite have been discussing the best method of creating cremation diamonds since the 1950s.
A precise and infallible tracking system gives you security that your loved one’s ashes are in good hands.
Speak With A Diamond Company
If you have a question or would like to get a price, you can speak with a cremation diamond company by filling out this form below.
Are Cremation Diamonds right for you?
Cremation diamonds are definitely one of the more profound and personal items you can select as an end of life memorial.
Each time you look at your diamond, you will be reminded of the one you lost. Keeping a part of them next to you could even aid in the grieving process.
What diamond will you choose? For those who have purchased one, tell us about your experience.
If you have a question or wish to get a quick quote, you can speak with one of our reputable cremation diamond experts.
My darling Flopsy will always be with me in my beautiful pendant. I loved her so much and shes always with me.
I like the created diamonds, but alas I am a economically deprived woman. There f ore I must go the other route and pick the beautiful pink ring and Moral ring, but they did not pull up so I do not know their cost. I have my Mother’s and my Son’s ashes. If you could text me that information I would be most appreciative.
I am planning for the future and I would like to coordinate with the funeral home and your company so as to have my ashes directly sent to your lab upon my death
I need to know minimum volume of ashes required. We lost a grandchild at just 21 weeks of pregnancy. We do not want to use all of her ashes for this.
Hi Diana, so sorry for your loss. In terms of the minimum volume of ashes required, I believe it is around 200 grams of ashes or 10 grams of hair. You might want to speak with a cremation diamond expert just to confirm this- there is a form you fill out on the top of this page. Best Regards, Adam
Since these ‘diamonds’ only use a small volume of ashes to supply the needed carbon, the remaining carbon is just added to the mix as needed, why is there any ‘minimum’ quantity of ashes needed?
My wife recently died and was cremated. I have not ordered the final packaging of the bulk ashes yet because I want to use them for several different things (two portions for scattering for burial ceremonies at two cemeteries; small individual portions for requests for individual scattering by friends and relatives; potential use in a cremation diamond). I need to know the range of weight required to produce 0.5 or 1.0 carat white diamonds (to provide a sense of the dependence of ash weight to produce carat weight). Also, I was wondering whether you can inspect color during growth. After I saw some example of stones that have been produced and their color, I may want natural aquamarine (nor colorized) rather than white, because she liked aquamarine as a tone also and this was her birthstone (March birthday).
The diamond I ordered was blue, but the literature stated, that the depth of color depended on the amount of beryllium in the ashes.
boron*
Lonite took my grandmothers ashes, then my money. After I wired the money to them, the US rep. stopped answering my calls. They received my grandmothers ashes, as well as the first payment from me, via wire, in July. They won’t accept checks, credit cards, money orders. Nothing. They only want customers to wire the money.
After receiving my grandmothers ashes, and payment, Lonite didn’t start anything until September. I didn’t get any updates until December. The trail went cold in March, of this year.
It was only after I started writing, and reminding them that it was only supposed to take nine (9) months, as well as an angry e-mail, that Lonite “SAID ” that my diamond was on its way. Every thing they did was late. Even having the nerve to bill me, after all they put me through, was late.
I wrote, telling them that I don’t trust them, and if they want final payment from me, they’ll have to show me some faith, and send my merchandise first. That was this past week, October 21st. Not only have I not heard back from them, they’re now saying my account number no longer exists.
I tried to research this, and other cremation ashes companies, but the technology is so new, that its difficult.
Buyer beware.
Hi, Vicky
Sometimes memorial diamond growing process takes time. Sorry to hear you had a bad experience with your chosen company. We at SaintDiamonds company grow cremation diamonds from 1- 2 months. Basic color (yellow) diamond is usually ready within 5 weeks after receiving the ashes. For example blue or colorless diamond requires more time- approximately 8 weeks.
Actually, HPHT diamond growing technology is older than we might think. The first commercially successful synthesis of diamond was achieved in early 50s.
I have been traumatized by my experience with Lonite, as they did not include the (hard copy) certification paperwork with the diamond, and I have been waiting for a month now. I am not even sure that the diamond I have was indeed made from my Shiro’s ashes. They did send me an email report with a (supposed) breakdown of the elements, so I am wondering if I can use the “interim” report and a sample of the ashes I have left to verify that the process was on the up and up. I don’t trust them anymore. I have been unable to get closure as a result. Use Lonite at your own risk.
I’m in a similar situation to you Karen and I can empathize. I’ve been corresponding with their customer rep Tracy. My diamond still has yet to arrive even though I had placed the order Nov 2018 and they had received the ashes the following month. I’ve been constantly requesting that their order status be updated because there are months with no documentation for the process. I’ve expressed my concern and disappointment numerous times but never get any response that addresses them. I too am afraid that I’ve been scammed, and I have no confidence that the diamond actually came from my loved one. I finally received my final invoice on 12/26 of this year, and I’m afraid to wire more money in case that I’ll never receive the diamond. Anyone dealing with Lonite should be very wary
Thank you for this feedback. I’ll stay stateside.
Vicky’s story is a warning. Beware who you deal with.
Can human and animal cremains be mixed together? My son wanted his ashes mingled with those of his best friend, the cat he grew up with! I would like to honor his wish.
Hi Debbie, I would suggest you contact a Diamond company directly. You can fill out a form at the top of this page and they will answer you question promptly.
I am interested in the process in California, Arizona and Pennsylvania.
How much did you have to put down and how much was the total for a diamond in this process before I decide what I want to do it.
Hi Paula, how much you put down will ultimately depend on which diamond company you work with. Some companies offer special payment plans, etc. In terms of price, it will largely depend on carat size, color, and the company you work with. Have a look in our “costs” section on this article. If you want to get a specific idea of price, you can fill out our form in our “speak to our experts” section.
What do they use for coloring the diamonds that the price changes so much for the same sizes. Another words why does yellow cost less than clear diamond.
Yellow costs less than clear (and other colours) because it takes less time to create. The clear options take the longest time to grow.
I would like to speak with someone about making a stone for myself and my daughter from our darling Dad/Husband’s askes.
Hi Ruth, we can organize someone to call you. I just sent you an email asking for a contact number.
Is it possible to make a diamond and then when another loved one dies add them to that stone
I placed an order of a diamond ring from my dog’s ashes with EverDear. They said it may take about 9 months but I saw the picture of my diamond within 6 months, now I am waiting for the jewelry making. I didn’t really like their jewelry collection so I ended up sending them a picture and they were nice to create a custom ring for me based on the design. Can’t waiting to see the final product. Waiting is the hardest part.
The above comments, especially from Saint Diamonds are completely ridiculous. Lonite, Saint Diamonds and Everdear are liars and cheats. If anyone here believes that a yellow diamond takes half the time to grow than a colorless or blue diamond, you would also believe that Mercedes builds yellow cars faster than blue cars. Lonite are based in China, not in Switzerland, there is proof of that, Saint Diamonds and Everdear are basically the same Russian diamond maker. They all have a bowl of yellow diamonds in front of them, they take the ashes you sent them, throw them away and give you a synthetic diamond made from plain carbon. The only trustworthy memorial diamond producers are LifeGem, Algordanza and Eterneva.
Everdear, Lonite and Saint Diamonds are all thieves and liars, they take the ashes you sent, throw them into a basket and send you a diamond made in China from charcoal they found on the ground and tell you here is your loved one.
I have been working with the people at Eterneva. They are a wonderful, caring company to work with. I am looking forward to getting my diamond in a few months. I would highly recommend this company.
How can i get the best affordable price if we want various members of the family to get one diamond also?
Is there a place that can grant a discount since is jot only 1? Im from Costa Rica.