FAQ

Welcome to our FAQ page. Here, we answer common questions about our urns and services. If you have a question that's not listed, please email us at contact@forever-urns.co.nz - We're here to help.

What is a cremation urn?

A cremation urn is a special container that holds the ashes of a loved one after cremation.

  • Purpose: To keep and protect ashes.
  • Materials: Made from wood, metal, ceramic, or glass.
  • Designs: Available in many shapes and styles to honour your loved one.

How do I choose the right size urn?

Selecting the correct urn size is important.

  • General Rule: 1 kilogram of body weight equals about 16.5 millilitres of urn space.
  • Standard Adult Urn: Holds approximately 3 to 3.5 litres.
  • Companion Urns: For two individuals, holding about 6 to 7 litres.
  • Keepsake Urns: Smaller, for sharing ashes among family.

What materials are cremation urns made from?

Urns come in various materials, each with unique features.

  • Wood: Offers a warm, natural look.
  • Metal: Such as brass or stainless steel; durable and elegant.
  • Ceramic: Classic and decorative.
  • Glass: Handcrafted and unique.
  • Biodegradable: Eco-friendly options for earth or water burials.

What are the different types of urns available?

There are various urns to suit different needs.

  • Standard Urns: For holding all of the ashes.
  • Keepsake Urns: Smaller, for sharing ashes.
  • Companion Urns: Designed for two individuals.
  • Biodegradable Urns: For eco-friendly burials.
  • Jewellery Urns: Wearable pieces that hold a small portion of ashes.

How do I select an urn for human ashes?

Consider these factors when choosing an urn.

  • Size: Ensure it can hold all the ashes.
  • Material: Pick one that suits your preferences.
  • Design: Choose a style that reflects your loved one.
  • Purpose: Decide if it’s for display, burial, or scattering.

What size urn is appropriate for an adult?

An adult urn typically holds about 3 to 3.5 litres of ashes.

  • General Guide: 1 kilogram of body weight equals 16.5 millilitres of urn space.
  • Always Check: Confirm the urn’s capacity before purchasing.

Can I use a decorative urn for display at home?

Absolutely, many choose to display urns at home.

  • Design: Select an urn that complements your décor.
  • Placement: Find a special spot to honour your loved one.
  • Security: Ensure it’s in a safe location to prevent accidents.

What are biodegradable urns, and when should they be used?

Biodegradable urns are eco-friendly options that break down naturally.

  • Materials: Made from paper, sand, or other natural substances.
  • Use: Ideal for earth or water burials.
  • Environmental Impact: Minimises harm to the environment.

How do I choose an urn for my pet's ashes?

Selecting a pet urn involves similar considerations as human urns.

  • Size: Based on your pet’s weight.
  • Material and Design: Reflect your pet’s personality.
  • Purpose: Display, burial, or scattering.

What size urn do I need for my pet?

The size depends on your pet’s weight.

  • General Guide: 1 kilogram of body weight equals 16.5 millilitres of urn space.
  • Example: A 10-kilogram pet needs a 165 millilitre urn.

Are there urns specifically designed for different types of pets?

Yes, there are urns tailored for various pets.

  • Cats: Urns with feline designs.
  • Dogs: Breed-specific or paw print motifs.
  • Small Animals: Suitable sizes for rabbits, birds, etc.

What are the options for memorialising my pet's ashes?

Honouring your pet's memory can be done in various meaningful ways:

  • Scattering Ashes
  • Memorial Jewellery
  • Planting a Memorial Tree
  • Keepsake Urns
  • Memorial Art: Have ashes included in a piece of artwork.

Are there legal considerations for keeping or scattering ashes?

Yes, consider:

  • Private Property: Obtain permission from the owner.
  • Public Areas: Check local regulations before scattering ashes.
  • Environmental Impact: Ensure the chosen method is eco-friendly.

Purchasing and Shipping Urns

How do I purchase a cremation urn from your store?

To buy an urn or jewellery item:

  • Browse: Explore our online catalogue.
  • Select: Choose the item or items that suits your needs.
  • Purchase: Follow the checkout process to complete your order.

Do you offer international shipping?

We only ship and sell to customers within New Zealand at this time.

What is the estimated delivery time for an urn?

Delivery times depend on your location.

  • Domestic Shipping: Typically 3-5 business days.

Can I track my order?

Yes, you can track your order.

  • Shipment Confirmation: Once your order is shipped, you'll receive an email with a tracking number.
  • Tracking Your Package: Use the provided tracking number to monitor your package's status through our website or the carrier's tracking system.
  • Assistance: If you haven't received a tracking number or need help, please email us.

Can I return my order if I change my mind?

At Forever Urns, your satisfaction is our top priority. If you wish to return or exchange an item, we're here to assist.

  • Eligibility: Items must be returned in their original, undamaged, and saleable condition.
  • Process: To initiate a return or exchange, please contact us at contact@forever-urns.co.nz.
  • Policy Details: For comprehensive information, please review our Refunds and Exchanges Policy.

We're committed to ensuring your experience with us is positive and supportive.

Product Queries

What is Cremation Jewellery?

Cremation jewellery is special jewellery that holds a small amount of a loved one's ashes.

  • Purpose: To keep a loved one close.
  • Types: Necklaces, bracelets, rings.
  • Materials: Gold, silver, glass.

How do I Put the Ashes Inside my Cremation Jewellery?

Filling your cremation jewellery is a delicate process.

  • Preparation: Work in a clean, quiet space to avoid distractions.
  • Tools: Use the provided ash placement kit, which includes a funnel and filling sticks.

Steps:

  1. Open: Gently unscrew the compartment.
  2. Fill: Place the funnel into the opening and carefully add a small amount of ashes. Use the filling sticks to guide the ashes if needed.
  3. Seal: Securely close the compartment, ensuring it's tightly sealed.

For detailed instructions, refer to our guide on filling cremation jewellery.

Can you travel with cremation jewellery?

Yes, you can travel with cremation jewellery.

  • Wearing It: It's safe to wear your cremation jewellery through airport security. Such small items typically don't set off alarms.
  • Carry-On: If you prefer not to wear it, place the jewellery in your carry-on luggage. This keeps it secure and easily accessible.
  • Security Screening: Cremation jewellery is generally allowed on flights. The TSA does not prohibit wearing cremation jewellery or bringing it on board a flight.
  • Documentation: While not usually required, carrying a copy of the cremation certificate can be helpful if questions arise.

Always check with your airline for any specific policies regarding travelling with cremation items.

What is a Keepsake Urn?

Keepsake urns are small containers designed to hold a portion of a loved one's ashes.

  • Sharing: Multiple urns can be distributed among family and friends, allowing each person to keep a part of the deceased close.
  • Portability: Their compact size makes them easy to carry or place in a special spot at home.
  • Capacity: Keepsake urns are not meant to hold all of the ashes. For the remaining ashes, you might consider a standard-sized urn or using a scattering tube for dispersal.

This approach allows for both personal remembrance and the ceremonial scattering of ashes.

What is a Scattering Tube?

A scattering tube is a special container designed to hold a loved one's ashes for a scattering ceremony.

  • Purpose: To scatter ashes in a meaningful location.
  • Design: Lightweight and easy to use during the ceremony.
  • Materials: Often made from eco-friendly, biodegradable materials.
  • Features: Includes a removable lid and a perforated tab for controlled scattering.

After the ceremony, the tube can be recycled or kept as a memento.