At Crescent, our mission is to help each and every family find peace and celebrate a life well lived. We do this by manufacturing and then providing high quality products and services through your local Funeral Home. Funeral homes across the USA and world depend on Crescent to help families celebrate and honor the life lived by their loved ones.
Can a loved one be moved to another state or country for the funeral service?
Can cremains be moved to another state or country?
If a loved one dies out of state, can a local funeral home still help?
Is a funeral director required to bury the deceased?
Is embalming necessary?
What is the purpose of embalming?
Does the law require embalming?
What is a funeral or life celebration?
Why have a funeral or life celebration?
Why do people have a public viewing?
Is a funeral director necessary?
The important role of a funeral director
The funeral home
Different types of funerals
What type of services are there?
What is a private service?
What is a memorial service?
Different types of burials
A family plot
Columbarium niche
The urn garden
Green burials
Are there any burial benefits for veterans of the U.S. military?
How do I arrange a burial at sea?
What are the costs associated with a funeral?
How do most people pay for funeral expenses?
How much of my funeral expenses will social security cover?
As a United States veteran, will the Veterans Administration pay for funeral expenses?
Who handles the obituaries?
Can a person make my funeral arrangements before they die?
What happens to my prearrangement should a person choose to move?
What details do I need to have for time of death?
Does a body or organ donation affect a funeral?
How do I become an organ donor?
What to do when a death occurs
How do I comfort a grieving friend?
Cremation Vs. Traditional Burial
How is a cremation service different from a traditional funeral service?
How does the cost of cremation compare with burial or entombment?
What is cremation?
Why is cremation becoming more popular?
Decisions you must make if you choose cremation
What does the cremation process involve?
Can a person still have a visitation and/or funeral service if they wish to be cremated?
What types of services are available with cremation?
Can a person have a visitation period and a funeral service if cremation is chosen?
Is cremation minimal and restrictive to the family?
What about scattering cremains?
Are human cremated in caskets or containers?
Is a casket required for cremation?
What types of caskets/containers are used for cremation?
What happens to the casket in cremation?
How is cremation accomplished?
What is "processing" of the cremains after cremation?
Is there any element in human cremains that would be harmful to the environment as a result of cremation?
How are the cremains retrieved from the cremation chamber?
How are the cremains identified while in the cremation chamber?
I have extra cremains. What should I do with them?
What are cremation urns?
About what size urn do I need?
What type of urn is best for my needs? (ex: outside or inside)
How do I get the ashes in the urn?
What are some of the different types of urns?
Wood Urns
Ceramic Urns
Marble Urns
Metal Urns
Cloisonné Urns
Bio-degradable Urns
Eco-friendly Urns
Companion Urns
Infant Urns
What are presentation urns?
What is an urn vault?
Do I need an urn vault?
What is the difference between a coffin and a casket?
What options are available for earth burial?
What options are available for entombment?
Are there eco-friendly caskets?
Can I rent a casket?
What types of caskets are available?
What is a keepsake?
What is Crescent Art Glass?
Does Crescent Art Glass hold cremains?
Types of keepsake memorial jewelry
What is Life Print Memorial Keepsake™ jewelry?
Does Life Print Memorial Keepsake™ jewelry hold cremains?
How to clean keepsake jewelry.
How to clean stainless steel keepsake jewelry.
Maintenance and storage for stainless steel keepsake jewelry.
What are the differences between gold-plated, gold vermeil, gold-filled and sterling silver?
What is a keepsake jewelry glass dome used for?
Filling your keepsake cremation jewelry
Is it ok to wear my cremation jewelry in the shower or during swimming?
Can a loved one be moved to another state or country for the funeral service?
Yes. Forwarding or receiving of cremains to or from another funeral home or mortuary consists of preparing the body for shipment in a casket strapped into a combination unit. If a funeral is to be conducted in a different city to the place of death, or even in another state, there are options to transport the deceased. In the case of short distances, your funeral home will usually be able to offer their services and this is sometimes charged at an additional mileage rate. When the distance is beyond their travel range, the funeral service provider will hire a carrier that specializes in transporting human cremains – a funeral or mortuary transport company. State legislation governing funerals homes can vary state-to-state, so the need for embalming may depend upon where the deceased is being transported.
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Can cremains be moved to another state or country?
If the costs for transporting the body of the deceased seem too expensive and you wish not to incur that level of expense to repatriate your loved one’s cremains, you may wish to consider a cremation at the place of death. The cremains can then be shipped back home at a reduced cost. Cremains can be carried on most airlines, although you do need to carefully ensure that you are compliant with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines. Cremains must however be transported in a temporary container that can pass through TSA x-ray machines. This should be a container constructed of wood, plastic, cardboard or any non-lead based ceramic. The TSA personnel are not permitted to open an urn to check the contents, therefore if a container does not pass through the x-ray, it will not be allowed as carry-on. Most reputable funeral homes and cremation urn suppliers who are familiar with this legislation will be able to provide a known TSA complaint container for transportation.
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If a loved one dies out of state, can a local funeral home still help?
Yes. Typically a local funeral home can assist you with out-of-state arrangements, either to transport the cremains back home or help coordinate funeral arrangements with an out-of-state funeral home on your behalf.
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Is a funeral director required to bury the deceased?
In most States, family members may bury their own dead although regulations vary. However, most people find it very trying to be solely responsible for arranging the details and legal matters surrounding a death. A Funeral Director is a very important help during this time of need. The funeral director is a great comfort during this time when loved ones often find that grief makes handling all the details associated with death a very difficult task. With quiet dignity and a complete understanding of how to assist people in grief, the funeral director gently guides loved ones through a rough period, allowing them to honor the deceased in a way that is proper and respectful.
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Is embalming necessary?
Not necessarily, but factors of time, health and possible legal regulations and religious beliefs might make embalming prior to cremation either appropriate or necessary.
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What is the purpose of embalming?
Embalming sanitizes and preserves the body and slows the decomposition process. It also can enhance the appearance of a body disfigured by traumatic death or illness. Perhaps most importantly, embalming makes it possible to lengthen the time between death and the final disposition, thus allowing family members time to arrange and participate in the type of service most comforting to them.
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Does the law require embalming?
Except in certain special cases embalming is not required by law; however, embalming will be necessary if you select certain funeral arrangements such as viewing during visitation or a delay of more than 24 hours before interment. If you do not want embalming, you have the right to choose an arrangement that would not require it such as closed casket services with immediate burial, within 24 hours of death, or cremation prior to your services.
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What is a funeral or life celebration?
A funeral, or life celebration is a ceremony for celebrating, honoring, respecting or remembering the life of a person who has recently passed away. The word funeral comes from the Latin funus, which had a variety of meanings, including meaning the corpse and the funeral or celebration rites themselves. Funeral services are as old as human culture itself dating back to at least 300,000 years ago.
Indeed, it seems that from the beginning of history, people and cultures have honored those who have died with a ceremony. According to early beliefs, the purpose of the ritual was to send the deceased on his or her journey into the afterlife. Today, however, many experts agree that the benefits of a service are for those who are left behind. In essence, it provides "closure" of sorts to help survivors adjust to the loss of their loved one. And the funeral service or life celebration provides the opportunity for friends and family to celebrate the life that was lived and allow the healing process to begin.
A funeral and a Life Celebration are somewhat similar although of course with a different focus. Both however refer to paying tribute or honoring someone who has passed away. Around the world and in every culture, families and friends have honored and paid tribute to loved ones when they die. Typically this is now done in a funeral home whether it be for burial or cremation and the cost of a funeral can vary widely. The Funeral Director works with the family on all funeral arrangements and helps the family plan for a funeral.
There are many different types of funeral rituals and rites as they vary among all the various cultures and religions throughout the world and yet they typically share some common elements like removing the deceased to a funeral home or mortuary, preparing the cremains, performing a ceremony, taking care of the spiritual and grief needs of the family and friends and then finally handling the final disposition of the deceased. Funeral services or life celebrations can take place in many places like in a home, in a house of worship, outdoors in nature, in a funeral home or at the grave site or crematory.
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Why have a funeral or life celebration?
Funerals or Life Celebrations fill an important role for those mourning and grieving over the loss of a family member or loved one. First and foremost, they provide family members and friends a caring and supportive environment to share thoughts and feelings about the death and about the life lived by the family member or loved one. By doing so, funerals are an important step in the very important grief healing process. Indeed, attending a funeral service provides many benefits including providing a social support system for the bereaved, helping them understand that death is a part of life, easing the transition to a new life, providing a safe place for expressing pain, reaffirming one’s relationship with the person who died and providing an opportunity to say good-bye.
The bereavement process starts with the recognition and realization that someone has died. In the USA, typically the family with go to a local Funeral Home and meet with the Funeral Director to plan for the funeral. They will help the family decide on burial vs. cremation, the cost of the funeral and all other details.
The funeral or memorial service provides an opportunity to remember and tell stories about the person, to come to terms with the reality of death and to reaffirm beliefs about that person as well as in other faiths that are shared. Certainly, having a funeral service with time to say goodbye and to remember and pay tribute to your loved one is important for the healing of the immediate family as well as other friends and loved ones.
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Why do people have a public viewing?
From the beginning of recorded history, societies have honored those who have died with a ceremony. The purpose of the ritual was to send the deceased on his or her journey into the afterlife. However, many experts today agree that the benefits of a service are for those who are left behind - it provides "closure" to help survivors adjust to their loss and provides the opportunity for friends and family to celebrate the life that was lived and allow the healing process to begin.
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Is a funeral director necessary?
Some governmental jurisdictions require a licensed person to transport a body, obtain the necessary permits and perform the cremation service. Funeral Directors are among those so licensed and are the only ones permitted to perform such services in these jurisdictions. Normally, the funeral director performs the same professional functions for cremation as for any other service.
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The important role of a funeral director
Funeral Directors, also called morticians and undertakers, help plan the funeral and arrange all of the details of funerals depending upon the direction of the deceased or family members. Together with the family, funeral directors establish the location, dates, and times of services and wakes, organize the memorial services, and burials; prepare obituary notices, arrange for pallbearers and clergy, schedule the opening and closing of a grave with a representative of the cemetery, decorate and prepare the sites of all services, and provide transportation for the deceased, immediate family and mourners between sites. They also direct preparation and shipment of bodies for out-of-State burial. If a family chooses cremation they assist in the selection of the urn, personalizing that urn and preparing for the funeral with other keepsakes for the family like jewelry or Life Prints.
Funeral directors handle the paperwork involved with the person's death, including submitting papers to State authorities so that a formal death certificate may be issued. Funeral Directors might also help family members apply for veterans' burial benefits or notify the Social Security Administration. Also, funeral directors may apply for the transfer of any pensions, insurance policies, or annuities and other financial matters on behalf of survivors. Most funeral directors are also trained, licensed, and practicing embalmers. Embalming is a sanitary, cosmetic, and preservative process through which the body is prepared for interment. Funeral directors also work with those who want to plan their own funerals in advance thereby ensuring that the family’s wishes will be completed. The process of preparing in advance is typically called pre-planning for a funeral.
Most funeral homes are small, family-run businesses, and many funeral directors are owner-operators or employees with managerial responsibilities. Funeral directors often work long, irregular hours, and the occupation can be highly stressful. Many are on call at all hours because they may be needed to remove cremains in the middle of the night. Shift work sometimes is necessary because funeral home hours include evenings and weekends. Funeral directors are licensed by the State in which they practice.
The funeral director is a great comfort during a time when loved ones often find that grief makes handling all the details associated with death a very difficult task. With quiet dignity and a complete understanding of how to assist people in grief, the funeral director gently guides loved ones through a rough period, allowing them to honor the deceased in a way that is proper and respectful.
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The funeral home
Funeral homes in the USA began in the mid-19th Century and were originally responsible for the preservation and shipment of Civil War deceased. As little as a quarter century ago virtually all funeral homes were owned by individuals and families. Today, over fifteen percent of all funeral homes, and an even greater percentage of 'for profit' cemeteries and crematories, are owned by large corporations.
Most funeral directors work in funeral homes that have one or more viewing rooms, a casket-selection room, a preparation room, and sometimes a chapel. Some may also have a crematory on the premises.
Family owned funeral homes are locally owned and operated and many have been in the funeral service for generations. Because of this they have personal relationships with many people in the community and are very actively involved in the communities they serve. They strive to offer the highest quality of service to their families because they are very sensitive to the needs of the community in which they live and serve. Poor service of course would jeopardize their business due to negative word of mouth. As mentioned, a few corporations buy funeral homes across the country. At times these continue to be run by the family but sometimes new management is brought in. It is not easy to tell whether a funeral home is family or corporate owned.
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Different types of funerals
There are many ways to say goodbye to a loved one. In fact, that is one reason you should consider the expertise of a Funeral Home Director who is very aware of all the options. Some of the most popular types of funeral services are:
The Funeral Home Director or a member of their staff sits down with the family to determine the best way to celebrate a life. A funeral is more than a way to say goodbye - it’s an opportunity to celebrate the life of someone that was dearly loved. Today a funeral can be as unique as the individual who is being honored. So it is important for the family to consider what the loved one was like – what they liked to do, whether or not the loved one was very spiritual, whether or not the loved one was proud of their culture, etc. Also important is whether or not the loved one was a member of the military, police or fire department. A Funeral Director or a member of their staff assists the family with creating the best Life Celebration for the loved one of that family.
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What type of services are there?
Funeral directors are trained to help families arrange the type of service they desire. The service is usually held at a place of worship or at the funeral home. The service may vary in ritual according to religious denomination or the wishes of the family. The presence of friends at this time is an acknowledgement of friendship and support.
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What is a private service?
A private service is by invitation only where selected relatives and a few close friends attend the funeral service.
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What is a memorial service?
A memorial service is usually a service without the body present and can vary in ceremony and procedures according to the family's community and religious affiliations.
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Different types of burials
Most people who have visited or driven past a cemetery have noticed that all burials are not the same. There are different types of burial plots that can be purchased from a funeral home. An important role of the Funeral Director is that they can get a list of all available options at local cemeteries and their costs. Here are the most common options, although every cemetery may not have all available options:
Single plot. The most common type of burial involves a single plot, often with a headstone, where an individual loved one is buried. Depending on the size of the cemetery, you may have choices about where exactly in the cemetery to be buried.
Companion plots. Many people with spouses choose a companion plot so that they can be buried next to their spouse or loved one. In some cases, depending on the policy of the funeral home and local laws in the community, a couple can be buried side-by-side in a companion plot, which often is larger and more expensive than a single family plot.
Public mausoleum. In some places there is a mausoleum where you can be buried in a single or companion crypt. The benefit of a mausoleum is that mourners can visit at any time without regard to weather conditions.
Private mausoleum. Some families or businesses have private mausoleums, which are only open to those with an appropriate connection to the deceased.
Lawn crypt. Instead of being placed in the ground in a casket, a lawn crypt is an aboveground burial location. A lawn crypt is more expensive than a burial plot, but provides a clean, dry space for the cremains.
Cremation. If a family member is cremated, that does not rule out any of the traditional burial options. An urn can be buried in a plot in the ground, placed in a public or private mausoleum crypt or included in an above-ground lawn crypt. Additionally, some families may decide to do away with all burial options and have a beloved family member take possession of the urn and cremation ashes.
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A family plot
If you already own a burial plot or family lot, you may choose to inter the cremation urn there. Cemeteries often permit the interment of the cremains of more than one person in a single adult space. If you wish to be interred in a family plot, but do not want ground interment, there are monuments available to house the cremains. These monuments can be used for those who have chosen cremation or in combination with family members who have chosen casketed burial. Grave site committal of the urn is available and some cemeteries require that the urn be placed in an urn vault for interment. There are a wide variety of markers and monuments available but you should check your cemetery's rules before purchasing your memorial. The monument or marker you select will be a lasting genealogical record for the generations of your family and a lasting symbol of the special life you want to remember and commemorate.
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Columbarium niche
A columbarium is an indoor or outdoor wall containing niches. A niche is defined as a recessed compartment designed to hold urns. Columbariums may be an entire building, a room, a wall along a corridor or a series of special alcoves or halls in a mausoleum, chapel, or other buildings located in a cemetery or on other dedicated property. Niches come in many sizes with a selection of fronts such as glass, marble, bronze, granite or mosaic. Glass fronts may be clear, tinted, frosted or etched. Some columbarium niches are designed for specific size urns while others may contain a double size space for two urns or even larger niches for multiple urns. Some clear glass fronted niches allow meaningful memorabilia to be placed inside along with the urn.
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The urn garden
Many cemeteries or memorial parks have areas designated specifically for the interment of cremains. These areas are called Urn Gardens and are set aside for those who desire ground or above-ground interment. Some gardens offer individual urn burial plots that will accommodate a marker. Others offer unmarked areas for interment of the urn, with adjacent walls or sculptures for memorial plaques. Check with your cemetery or memorial park on the types of permanent memorialization they offer for garden interment of cremains.
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Green burials
A Green burial, or natural burial, ensures the burial site cremains as natural as possible in all respects. Interment of the bodies is done in a bio-degradable casket, shroud, or a favorite blanket. There are no embalming fluids used, nor concrete vaults etc.
It is clear that nature has intended that our bodies be reunited with the earth. Constant microbial activity in the soil breaks everything down. Nature creates no waste. Everything is recycled. In keeping with your personal values, a natural burial site for you, family, even pets, promotes growth of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers, in turn bringing birds and other wildlife to the area. Water is not wasted, nor are pesticides and herbicides used in attempts to control nature. A green cemetery allows nature to take its course.
A green burial is a cremation alternative, and a viable alternative to "traditional" burial practices in the United States. It is an earth friendly option when considering burial vs. cremation. Many families choose cremation because it's seen as more environmentally friendly than traditional burial. Embalming, expensive sealed caskets and burial vaults are not required by law. Though traditional memorial parks may require them, a green cemetery or memorial nature preserve does not. The simplicity of a green burial is in tune with nature and need not be expensive.
Until recently, interment in an environmentally friendly burial ground was not an option. Now we can consider and encourage a natural burial, helping to preserve open spaces throughout the United States. This will increasingly become a cremation alternative.
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Are there any burial benefits for veterans of the U.S. military?
All veterans are entitled to a free burial in a national cemetery and a grave marker. This eligibility also applies to some civilians who have provided military-related service and some Public Health Service personnel. Spouses and dependent children are also entitled to a lot and marker when buried in a national cemetery. There are no charges for opening or closing the grave, for a vault or liner, or for setting the marker in a national cemetery. For more information, contact the Department of Veterans Affairs at 1-800-827-1000.
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How do I arrange a burial at sea?
Service providers specializing in burial at sea are available through funeral directors or by contacting them directly. These service providers are familiar with the various federal and state laws and will handle all governmental reporting requirements.
The most common method of burial at sea is a scattering of cremains. Whole body burials are possible but they are more involved due, in part, to regulations requiring them to be done at a specific depth of the sea and the need for a specially prepared casket that will descend to the ocean floor.
The Department of the Navy offers free burial at sea services for veterans and their families subject to certain restrictions.
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What are the costs associated with a funeral?
Funeral costs vary depending on the funeral home and type of service selected. There are two types of costs associated with a funeral. First, services provided by the funeral home. Secondly merchandise such as a casket or urn. More and more, people are choosing cremation partially due to the fact that it can be less expensive than a traditional burial.
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How do most people pay for funeral expenses?
A large number of families use funds that were set aside in funeral pre-arrangements ahead of time. Others may pay with cash, checks or a credit card, and some families rely on life insurance to pay for funeral expenses.
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How much of my funeral expenses will social security cover?
The Social Security Administration may pay a lump sum death benefit to the surviving spouse, provided the deceased and their spouse were living together at the time of death. Entitled children may be eligible for a lump sum as well, if the deceased received monthly benefits at the time of death. To learn what you or your family is entitled to, contact the Social Security Administration directly at (800) 772-1213 or visit www.ssa.gov
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As a United States veteran, will the Veterans Administration pay for funeral expenses?
Each veteran, discharged other than dishonorably, is entitled to a burial flag and a government grave marker for an unmarked grave. If the death is ruled to be service connected, there may be additional monies available.
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Who handles the obituaries?
The funeral home will gather the information and place an obituary. You will want to know survivors, important dates, hobbies, and interests. You will need to be prepared to provide the full name, date of birth, social security number, Mother’s maiden name, and Fathers name to help the funeral home obtain a death certificate.
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Can a person make my funeral arrangements before they die?
Prearrangement and prepayment of funerals are becoming more and more common. Prearranging will provide you with more time to review your options and it gives you the choice in your own funeral service. It also provides you with the peace of mind in knowing everything has been taken care of, relieving your family of the emotional stress and financial burden of making arrangements at the time of death. In addition, making arrangements in advance often also can guarantee today's prices thereby avoiding inflation and price increases. Once these prearrangements are made, a person may decide to prepay for the funeral to secure the price at today's cost. The interest that accumulates on the funds is often then used to offset the increase in cost due to inflation etc.
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What happens to my prearrangement should a person choose to move?
Most prepaid arrangements are established using an irrevocable contract to protect the funds from being acquired by the State, the funeral home or the family before death occurs. Typically however arrangements are easily transferred to another funeral home should a person decide to leave the area.
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What details do I need to have for time of death?
It is a good idea to collect and make such pertinent personal details readily available at the time of death. The following is a sample of the information that helps you plan for in advance:
Biological & Personal Details
Does a body or organ donation affect a funeral?
Donation of organs or donation of the body should not affect funeral ceremonies. Donated organs must be transplanted shortly after death. After the organs have been taken, all aspects of the funeral can proceed as they would otherwise, including an open casket viewing, traditional funeral services, and burial or cremation. Likewise, donation of a body to medical science can be preceded by a viewing and funeral ceremonies.
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How do I become an organ donor?
To ensure that your donation wishes will be followed make your family aware of your decision to donate. Family consent will be needed regardless of whether you have signed a Donor Card or a Driver's License. They will be more likely to follow your wishes if you have discussed the issue with them previously. Be sure to sign a Uniform Donor Card and have 2 people (preferably family members) sign as witnesses. The back of your Driver's License may also have a donor authorization form. Finally, carry your Donor Card in your wallet at all times. Additional information and Donor Cards can be obtained via the web from: International Association for Organ Donation
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What to do when a death occurs
When the death occurs in a hospital or nursing home, the medical staff should take care of all the necessary legal steps. A person would only need to notify the medical staff about what Funeral Home will be handling funeral arrangements, and they will have you sign any necessary release forms. When death is anticipated at home under hospice care, a person need only notify the Funeral Home and they will handle the arrangements and all of the necessary legal requirements. Many times when someone is terminally ill, pre-arrangements are often made so you are not overwhelmed with the many important decisions that would otherwise need to be made at the time of death. When death occurs unexpectedly at home or elsewhere, a person should immediately call 911. Police and emergency medical personnel will determine appropriate next steps. Often times, police can release the bodily cremains directly to the funeral home. In some instances, however, the body might need to go to the Medical Examiner's office so the cause of death can first be determined. When death occurs out of state a Funeral Home can make arrangements for the bodily cremains to be transported back home.
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How do I comfort a grieving friend?
If you have a friend who is grieving the loss of someone, here are some ways for supporting a friend that will help and comfort them best:
First of all, attend funeral services or visitation, even if you didn't know the deceased. These services are really for your friend and the others who knew and loved that person. For them, your presence is comforting. Even if a casual friend or co-worker has experienced a loss, go to the funeral or visitation. Your presence is felt, and it is appreciated. You may be reluctant to attend funerals because you are not sure what you should say or how you should act. "I'm so sorry" is always an appropriate condolence, as is "I hurt for you." "I know just how you feel" may not be as comforting as you think. This might suggest to the grieving person that their feelings are not unique. If you cannot find the words, a warm hug, an arm across the shoulders, or a firm clasp of the hand are always comforting.
Second, you might call or pay a visit. A phrase commonly heard at funerals is "If there is anything I can do..." The problem is that very few grieving people will call on you later for help or companionship, no matter how badly they want to or need the help. It might be best to call after the funeral with specific offers like "I thought I'd come and mow your lawn this Saturday.” Offer something that you know is needed. Vague promises to stay in touch are too often forgotten after the funeral.
Third, let them know it's okay to talk about it, or cry. What about the weeks following the funeral? These may be some of the loneliest times of all for your grieving friend. Call or pay a visit soon after the funeral. You don't have to stay long. In fact, you probably shouldn't. Spend this short time focusing on their feelings. Refer to the deceased naturally, by name. Don't hesitate to ask how they are feeling. Let them know that it is okay to talk about their loss, or cry. Listen carefully to what is said. The most important ingredient of this is successive visits, and the acceptance of your friend's feelings.
Finally, try to remember them on weekends, holidays, and special family times. These occasions are often the most painful, because they are full of memories. Invite your friend or family member to join you on an outing, to a movie, or just for a quiet evening visiting or watching television at home. At first, you may get a lot of refusals. Your friend may not feel up to socializing, and it is important for you to not be insistent at this time. Try to understand and offer again later.
Over a period of months, your friend will start making some plans for their new life, and will feel like socializing and getting back into the mainstream of life. When this happens, you will realize how much your presence and caring has meant to your friend, and how valuable it was for you to keep the channels of communication open.
Funeral directors are in a unique position to help you through some of the most difficult times you will ever experience in life. Funeral directors provide focus and clarity in the time of emotional stress and chaos. In short, a funeral director is the facilitator and organizer during your hour of greatest need.
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Cremation Vs. Traditional Burial
One of the important decisions to be made when a death occurs is whether or not there should be a burial or a cremation. There are certain costs associated with burial including casket selection, the plot within the cemetery and headstone. Each cemetery is governed by their own board of directors and therefore prices and guidelines differ from one cemetery to the next.
"Disposition" is the term used by the funeral industry to describe the final handling of the deceased's cremains. Although your initial decision for the disposition of the body is between burial and cremation, there are several variations on each. For example, burial choices include an earth burial, having the casket entombed in a crypt within a mausoleum (above-ground burial) or it can be buried at sea.
In the United States, in 1972, only five percent of the population chose cremation. That number had quintupled by 1999, with over 25% choosing cremation. In Canada, the rate is already over 42%; in Great Britain, 71%; and over 98% in Japan. The reasons for choosing a cremation might include the fact that many people believe that a cremated body becomes one with nature more quickly or perhaps cremation is traditional in your family, religious group, or geographical area. Some prefer to have the body returned quickly and cleanly to the elements while others have environmental concerns. Some are worried about the use of valuable land for cemetery space, or believe it is wrong to fill the ground with materials that won't erode ... metal coffins and concrete vaults for example. Others choose cremation because they want to keep the costs down although selecting cremation does not necessarily mean that it will be an inexpensive funeral. The family might also choose an expensive casket for a viewing, and/or decide to have the cremains buried in the ground or placed in a columbarium.
In addition, although burial in a casket is the most common method of disposing of cremains, cremation is increasingly selected because it allows for the memorial service to be held at a more convenient time in the future when relatives and friends can come together. A funeral service followed by cremation need not be any different from a funeral service followed by a burial. Usually, cremains are placed in some type of permanent receptacle, or urn, before being committed to a final resting place. The urn may be buried, placed in an indoor or outdoor mausoleum or columbarium, or interred in a special urn garden that many cemeteries provide for cremains.
If you choose to have your loved one buried, you will need to decide if you want to have a viewing with the body present and if you want this viewing to be public or private. You will also need to make arrangements for a cemetery plot. If you choose to have your loved one cremated, please remember that you can still have the body present for viewing before the cremation. Many families do not know this option exists and do not get the needed closure to be on their path to healing. You will then need to decide if you would like the cremains scattered or kept in an urn or other keepsake.
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How is a cremation service different from a traditional funeral service?
There are usually more options for cremation services; however, they can be the same as a traditional burial service or uniquely different as well. The families may choose as much or as little formality as they feel is appropriate for their individual situation. When it comes to celebrating the life of a loved one, cremation services are equally as meaningful as a traditional burial service.
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How does the cost of cremation compare with burial or entombment?
The basic charge for cremation is usually less expensive than traditional burial, but with so many additional types of services that are available, it's not possible to make an accurate comparison.
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What is cremation?
Cremation is the accelerated reduction of the cremains to ash, through a process of fire and heat. In a little more detail, cremation is the process of high-temperature burning, vaporization, and oxidation to reduce animal or human bodies to basic chemical compounds, including gases and mineral fragments retaining the appearance of dry bone.
Cremains, which do not constitute a health risk, may be buried or interred in memorial sites or cemeteries, or they may be legally retained by relatives and dispersed in various ways. Cremation may serve as a funeral or post-funeral rite that is an alternative to the interment of an intact dead body in a casket. Cremation is not an alternative to a funeral, but rather an alternative to burial or other forms of disposal. Decomposition of the body in the earth (after burial) is the slow oxidation of the body tissues. Cremation, on the other hand, provides rapid oxidation.
The cremation occurs in a crematory that is housed within a crematorium and comprises one or more furnaces. A cremator is an industrial furnace that is able to generate temperatures of 870–980 °C (1600–1800 °F) to ensure disintegration of the corpse. A crematorium may be part of a chapel or funeral home or may be an independent facility or a service offered by a cemetery.
No casket is legally required for cremation, just a simple container, which is strong enough to hold the body. This could be a box of rough boards, pressboard, or heavy cardboard. Cremation Caskets however are becoming very popular because they allow for a quality viewing.
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Why is cremation becoming more popular?
There are many reasons why people choose cremation but research has shown that some of the following are factors or considerations in the cremation decision:
Decisions you must make if you choose cremation
If someone chooses cremation, there are still several decisions that need to be made. For example, you will need to decide what you plan to do with the cremains. There are many options including:
What does the cremation process involve?
The death certificate must be completed, signed by the attending physician or medical examiner, and all civil and medical authorities must have issued all required permits before cremation can take place. In addition, authorizations must be obtained from the next of kin or authorizing person without any objections being raised. Cremation then takes place and the cremains are placed in the designated container or urn. Cremation is the accelerated reduction of the cremains to ash, through the process of heat and fire. Decomposition of the body in the earth (after burial) is the slow oxidation of the body tissues. Cremation, on the other hand, provides rapid oxidation.
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Can a person still have a visitation and/or funeral service if they wish to be cremated?
Yes, there are many options available today with regards to cremation. The act of cremation is simply a form of disposition of the body, taking the place of burial. While someone might desire a direct cremation with no services, many people are choosing to have visitation and a funeral service prior to the cremation. Others choose to have a memorial service after the cremation, and many times families choose to display the urn at the service.
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What types of services are available with cremation?
Cremation allows for a variety of services. Many families choose to have a "traditional" funeral service prior to the cremation. This gives an opportunity for loved ones to pay their respects. Memorial services are usually held after the cremation either with or without the cremains present and can be held in addition to the funeral service. Also, the process of scattering the cremains is another way to provide opportunity for loved ones to gather for support and closing.
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Can a person have a visitation period and a funeral service if cremation is chosen?
Yes. Cremation does not preclude having a visitation period and a funeral service. Cremation is simply one option for final disposition of the body.
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Is cremation minimal and restrictive to the family?
Many families choose cremation because it is flexible and offers a variety of choices. Services, gatherings and products can be selected to fit the family or deceased's unique and specific requests.
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What about scattering cremains?
With the consent of the property owner, you may scatter the cremains of your loved one on public property and privately owned property. Be sure to check your local, state and federal laws when scattering on public land or sea. It is recommended that some cremains be kept and memorialized to allow family members and friends the opportunity to visit their loved ones in the future. Cemeteries and some crematories provide scattering gardens within their dedicated property, often with the option of personal memorials.
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Are human cremated in caskets or containers?
Containers are used for the cremation; however, the family may select a casket or container for the service. After the service, the inner container holding the body is removed and then transported to the crematorium.
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Is a casket required for cremation?
Caskets are not required but a proper container is required in order to protect the health and safety of the operator. It also provides respect by properly covering the deceased.
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What types of caskets/containers are used for cremation?
They must be rigid, leak-proof and made from a combustible material. Some caskets used for traditional burial fall under these categories. There are caskets made specifically for cremation as well.
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What happens to the casket in cremation?
The casket is consumed during the cremation process. It becomes part of the cremains that are returned to the family.
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How is cremation accomplished?
The enclosed body is placed in the cremation chamber. Through heat and evaporation, the body is reduced to its basic elements, the cremains. After the cremation process is complete (usually around two hours) the cremains are processed. Then they are either placed in a permanent urn or in a temporary container suitable for delivery to funeral home or family.
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What is "processing" of the cremains after cremation?
This process involves removing metallic particles form the cremains. Then reducing the cremains to a sand or powder-like consistency in a specially designed processor. This reduces the volume of the cremains and give them a simple appearance suitable for scattering if the family chooses.
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Is there any element in human cremains that would be harmful to the environment as a result of cremation?
USEPA has conducted comprehensive testing of cremators and decided to exempt them from Federal regulations. State environmental agencies are responsible for regulating crematories and have established stringent design, operation and performance standards to ensure the protection of the environment.
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How are the cremains retrieved from the cremation chamber?
Great care is taken to carefully retrieve the cremains by raking or sweeping them out of the cremation chamber and then into a collection pan.
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How are the cremains identified while in the cremation chamber?
Paper documentation, log books and a stainless steel identification disc with control number are typically used to ensure proper identification. The disc accompanies the cremains throughout the process including in the cremation chamber. A more modern method of identification and tracking is to use an electronic bar code scanning system. Similar to tracking Federal Express packages, this offers the highest level of security and protection since every step and process is date and time-stamped with the name of the person performing each part of the process. This ensures proper identification of the deceased prior to cremation or burial.
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I have extra cremains. What should I do with them?
They best use of the remaining cremains, if any, is to place them in a keepsake urn, scattering urn, or cremation jewelry.
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What are cremation urns?
These provide permanent containment for cremains. Urns range in size from single to multiple capacity, and in styling from the traditional book shape and classic Grecian design to novel creations and decorative art pieces and can be personalized to depict an individual's hobby or special interest. Some designs have a matching keepsake to share with families and/or a picture frame to display a photo of the individual being memorialized.
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About what size urn do I need?
For individual urns, you should choose a size that is at least equal to their body weight. Usually one pound of weight equals to one cubic inch of cremains. For example: if your loved one weighted 200lbs, you will most likely need an urn that is 200 cubic inches. For convince, the cubic inches of each urn can be found under its product description.
If you are looking for an urn that multiple family members can share a part of their loved one, choose a keepsake urn to accompany a full size urn. Keepsake Urns hold a small portion of the cremains.
Companion urns are frequently and used when a couple wants to have their cremains together. They are usually larger with two chambers for each individual's cremains to be placed in.
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What type of urn is best for my needs? (ex: outside or inside)
Crescent Memorial categorizes urns based on the materials they are constructed with such as marble, wood, metal and glass.
Marble and stone urns are extremely durable, but are also quite heavy, compared to other typical choices. The look can be a bit more formal, but they also communicate strength and endurance, and can be the perfect complement to the right memorial location.
Wooden urns are light, traditional, and natural. The look often communicates warmth and can be quite personal. Wooden urns are fairly durable but the wood can be damaged if it is mishandled, dropped, or exposed to moisture too often.
Metal urns are usually made of bronze, brass, aluminum, or steel. They are heavier than wood, lighter than stone, and come in the widest range of colors and finishes. Metal urns are very durable, though the finishes can be chipped if not handled appropriately.
Glass urns are the most fragile choice, but also the most distinctive and beautiful. Each glass urn is hand-crafted and will look exceptional in the home, especially if it is well-lit with either natural or artificial light. All quality urns are works of art, but glass urns are especially so and can be among the most contemporary looking.
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How do I get the ashes in the urn?
Some families choose to transfer cremains themselves, although it is recommend checking with local regulations before proceeding.
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What are some of the different types of urns?
With cremation getting more popular as compared to burial, the demand for cremation urns has also increased greatly. A cremation urn is a kind of container where the ashes of a loved one can be stored. With a help of a cremation urn, people find it easy to keep the memories of the loved one alive for generations to come. In order to make the right choice for that individual, it is important for a family to be aware of the different kinds of urns that are available in the market. This will make it easier for the buyers to select an urn that honors and pays tribute to the life of the deceased. And there are many different types of urns available today differing by material, size, color, creative, etc. Just some of the various types of urns include wood, ceramic, marble, metal, biodegradable, glass and cloisonné. In addition, there are companion urns, keepsake urns and even cremation jewelry.
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Wood Urns
Wood urns are made from all kinds of wood but most common are cherry, maple, pine, oak, walnut, and poplar. Wooden urns are light, traditional, and natural. The look often communicates warmth and can be quite personal. Wooden urns are fairly durable but the wood can be damaged if it is mishandled, dropped, or exposed to moisture too often.
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Ceramic Urns
Ceramic urns are hand crafted from porcelain or clay that is burned in a stove with the result being a glass-like finish that is covered with hand painted creative. Artists use the paint to create beautiful scenes that fit the personality for whom the urn is intended. Ceramic urns are very beautiful but they can also be very fragile.
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Marble Urns
A marble urn can be made out of natural marble or cultured marble and is one of the most intriguingly gorgeous stone products on Earth, also one of the world's most sturdy materials. Marble urns are designed to withstand the elements for generations. Cultured Marble Cremation Urns are elegant in appearance and yet very durable - high strength and more resistant to denting and chipping than natural marble. Cultured Marble is a precise blend of polyester resin, catalyst, fillers and pigments that is thoroughly mixed and placed into open molds that have been coated with a clear gel coat. Although Cultured Marble is a manufactured product, and like natural marble, granite, etc., it varies in shade and color and often cannot be distinguished from marble from a quarry.
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Metal Urns
The most popular metal material for urns is bronze, but metal urns can also be made from brass, copper and pewter. Metal urns are resilient enough to retain their integrity when buried, and yet provide an aesthetically pleasing addition to any room in the home or in a memorial garden. Metal urns are beautiful pieces crafted and then polished and lacquered to become a durable, beautiful home for a loved-one's ashes. Metal urns are often used when the ashes are to be buried, but metal urns are also commonly displayed in homes.
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Cloisonné Urns
Cloisonné Urns are highly detailed works of art that are handcrafted using wire casing on a ceramic piece to create colorful, and realistic pictures and designs upon a sturdy, beautiful work of art. The production process used in these urns combines the a variety of arts that have been in use for centuries. Each cloisonné urn begins with the forming of a shape and is followed by many steps until the urn is gilded and polished to a perfect, bright finish. The cloisonné process dates back many centuries. Chinese artisans used it as early as the 14th century.
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Bio-degradable Urns
Bio-degradable urns are environmentally friendly urns most commonly used when ashes are to be scattered, especially at sea. This type of urn is made from environment friendly products and non-toxic materials. This type of urn can be used for both burial and scattering of ashes. Some of the materials used for making this type of urns are mulberry bark, organic compost, newsprint, cornstarch, blocks of salt, paper clay, earthenware clay and unglazed ceramic. Most of these urns are handmade and they get fully degraded with time without causing any harm to the environment. They are hand made from non-toxic paper and meet all government requirements, and their careful construction prevents ashes from being haphazardly scattered by wind.
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Eco-friendly Urns
Eco-friendly, also known as bio-degradable urns can be used for ground or water burial. Marble, glass and metal are used for traditional urns. They degrade extremely slowly, making them unsuitable for a green burial. Green urns are made from sustainable, recyclable and eco-friendly materials. They will degrade in a matter of hours or days so as to have as little impact on the environment as possible.
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Companion Urns
A companion urn is a great way to memorialize the life of a loving couple and help them to remain together for eternity even after their death. This is a special type of urn where the cremation ashes of two individuals can be stored. Two main types of these models are available: double or single compartment. Many couples wish to have their cremation cremains mixed together, and the single compartment urns do just that. Double compartments allow the ashes to be stored separately within the same urn. The size of a companion urn is usually large as compared to other types of urns so that the ashes of two individuals can be stored comfortably.
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Infant Urns
Infant urns can be a great comfort to families who have suffered the loss of an infant or a child (or even those who have suffered a stillborn death). An infant urn is usually smaller in size and capacity. They are available in a large variety of styles, shapes and colors and most of them can also be customized. Many are specifically built to bring about the carefree, playful themes of childhood, in an attempt to keep the young spirit alive.
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What are presentation urns?
Presentation urns are large enough to hold a temporary urn. They are also available for use at a memorial or religious service, when a family is undecided on the final resting place of the cremains.
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What is an urn vault?
An urn vault, urn burial vault or cremation urn vault is any reinforced outer structure that protects the cremation urn against moisture and the weight of the earth
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Do I need an urn vault?
This depends on if the cemetery requires a vault and how well you want to protect your loved ones cremains. Cemeteries and memorial gardens often require cremation urns to be first placed in a burial vault. Consult with our funeral director or local cemetery first.
An urn burial vault is will protect the urn inside the vault from weakening and/or collapsing due to the moisture and the weight of the earth. The cremains are typically contained in a plastic bag within the urn; however, this will break down over time as well if exposed to moisture.
Cultured marble urn, cultured marble urn/vault (an urn that doubles as a cremation urn and vault), cast bronze urn, marble urn or stone urn can usually eliminate the need for a burial vault. These urns are stronger, more durable and will hold up very well over time and last for generations.
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What is the difference between a coffin and a casket?
The term ‘coffin’ and ‘casket’ generally mean the same although a ‘coffin’ is a traditional term used for indicating any type of a box used during burial. On the other hand the term ‘casket’ was introduced by people of North America for the box used for storing the dead body which is later used for burial. A casket however is usually a rectangular shaped box with a split lid for viewing the cremains of the deceased. On the other hand, a coffin is a case for dead human cremains which is anthropoid in shape with a tapered end. Anthropoid simply means that the coffin shape resembles a human being with six or eight sides.
Nowadays, the term casket is much more popular as compared to coffin when it comes to burial in North America. Choosing a casket is one of the most important parts of funeral planning for most families; however, depending upon what casket is chosen it can be expensive. Generally a casket is made of wood, metal, or any other similar material and ornamented and lined with fabric.
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What options are available for earth burial?
In the United States, most people are buried in cemeteries. Cemeteries offer single grave plots, double-depth plots, and lawn crypts. Single graves require a casket and most cemeteries also require some type of outer burial container. Double-depth burial spaces involve placing one casket on top of another in a grave space. Lawn crypts are underground tombs similar to double-depth graves. However, lawn crypts are pre-constructed structures, usually made of reinforced concrete and steel that house the caskets. Grave plots are typically marked with some type of headstone — either an upright monument or flush-to-the-ground marker.
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What options are available for entombment?
Entombment involves placing the casketed cremains in a concrete enclosure known as a crypt. Mausoleums are buildings that are constructed for purposes of housing crypts. Mausoleums may be enclosed buildings or open-air structures and may serve private families or entire communities.
Mausoleum crypts are sealed and marked with a face panel, usually made of granite or marble. When visiting the crypt, all you see is the face panel with the name of the person and other information typically found on grave markers.
Lawn crypts are a form of underground entombment. When visiting them, they'll look like regular grave spaces with headstones to memorialize the deceased.
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Are there eco-friendly caskets?
Yes, they are made from sustainable materials like heavy cardboard, wicker and softwoods such as pine. There are also bio-degradable caskets that are an even better choice because they break down more readily in the soil. These caskets are acceptable for burial in a green cemetery
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Can I rent a casket?
Yes, you can rent a casket for the purposes of a service; however, not all funeral homes offer this service. Rental caskets are standard caskets that the funeral home offers to accommodate viewings and services. The funeral home will charge you a nominal fee for renting the casket that covers cleaning and maintenance of the rental casket. After all services, the deceased will be transferred to a burial or cremation container.
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What types of caskets are available?
Cloth Covered Caskets:
Cloth covered burial caskets are inexpensive. They are made from a base material of either corrugated fiberboard or pressed wood. The exterior part is covered with a layer of cloth. The finished interior of such caskets includes bedding and a pillow that are typically hand sewn.
Veneer Caskets:
Veneer caskets have a beautiful look due to wood veneer. The veneer is produced by slicing, peeling, or sawing a thin layer of wood into a variety of thicknesses and standards. Wood veneers are generally created by gluing a thin layer of wood of superior or excellent grain to an inferior wood. Often these caskets can have a beautiful finish, a contoured top and sometimes beautiful detailing. Veneer caskets are typically slightly more expensive than cloth covered caskets.
Eco-friendly Caskets:
Eco-friendly caskets are made of natural materials such as willow, sea grass, cardboard and bamboo. Generally these caskets are hand crafted by skilled artists. The interior features a natural cotton interior lining, pillow and typically a shroud. The caskets are made with 100% biodegradable and non-toxic materials that do not cause harm to the environment. These caskets are also less expensive as compared to traditional caskets.
Metal Caskets:
Metal caskets can be made of different materials such as bronze, copper, stainless steel and steel. In addition, steel caskets are categorized into 18-gauge steel caskets and 20-gauge steel caskets based on the thickness of the material used. Each type of metal casket has its own unique features and advantages. The main reason behind the popularity of metal caskets is its high durability factor as compared to the traditional light-weight wood caskets. The price of metal caskets depends upon the type of metal used for making the casket.
Fiberglass caskets:
Fiberglass caskets are very lightweight, strong, and can be given a wide variety of finishes, including paint, faux wood grain and faux marble
Hardwood Caskets:
Hardwood caskets are made from wood such as mahogany, walnut, cherry, maple, oak, cedar, ash, pine, and poplar. Different species of wood have greater value than others. For example, Walnut and Mahogany would be considered a high value and Poplar would be of a lesser value. Hardwood caskets have a dignified and beautiful look that highlights the workmanship used for constructing them. The cost of hardwood caskets can vary depending on the type of wood used for making a casket and the type of finish and interior materials.
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What is a keepsake?
Keepsakes are urns used to hold small amounts of cremains. They are used to keep a portion of the cremains of a loved-one whose ashes have been otherwise scattered or for families who live far from one another but wish to share the ashes of a loved-one. Keepsake urns are typically offered in sizes between 1 – 50 cubic inches. Keepsake urns are available in a wide variety of shapes, styles and materials.
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What is Crescent Art Glass?
Our special process utilizes a unique method to combine cremains with the art of glass making to create a stunning hand made solid glass work of art that is as unique as the loved one it memorializes. Indeed, each piece is a one of a kind - no two are ever the same. In the midst of the beautiful, artistic colors, the cremains look similar to sea foam with swirling bubble and will hold your memories forever.
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Does Crescent Art Glass hold cremains?
Yes. Each piece is a unique and hand-crafted work of art combining the loved one's cremains with different blends of colors based on the families choice of color swatch. The overall look and color variations may vary slightly since each Art Glass keepsake is handmade and therefore unique.
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Types of keepsake memorial jewelry
There are three basic types of memorial Jewelry.
• Jewelry that does not hold cremains such as a selection of Crescent Life Print Memorial Keepsakes™.
• Jewelry that does hold cremains, a lock of hair or ceremonial flowers.
• Jewelry with embedded cremains such as Crescent Art Glass.
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What is Life Print Memorial Keepsake™ jewelry?
Crescent Life Print Memorial Keepsakes are created by using a combination of traditional jewelry techniques, modern technology and your loved one’s fingerprint. By offering a physical touch to a loved one’s life, they are created from two-dimensional ink prints that are then replicated onto bronze, .925 sterling silver, 14k yellow gold, or 14k white gold. All of the designs can be custom engraved on the back with their name and the dates of their wonderful life.
The Life Print Keepsakes produce a high quality family heirloom that will memorialize your loved one. The Life Print Keepsake pendants with cavities not only have a lasting Life Print inlay but they also can hold a small portion of cremains, a lock of hair, or even dried ceremonial flowers. Many families choose to have Life Prints made for the entire family and close friends. Since there are so many designs to choose from, the Life Print Memorial Keepsakes are accommodating to all ages, genders, and nationalities. The various and unique custom combinations allow for a beautiful, personal, and lasting connection to the ones we love.
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Does Life Print Memorial Keepsake™ jewelry hold cremains?
Yes, some do and some do not. The cavity pendant and keychain pendant both hold cremains. All of the other designs simply display your loved one's fingerprints.
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How to clean keepsake jewelry.
To maintain bond, pendant should not be immersed in water. A protective coating has been applied to Brass, Pewter, Bronze & Silver pendants to avoid tarnishing. Shine may be restored to tarnished Brass, Pewter, Silver, and 14K Gold pendants by using a polish cream and a soft jeweler’s cloth. A jeweler can remove scratches from Brass, Pewter, Silver, and 14K Gold pieces by buffing if needed. Restore the shine to plated pendants with damp cloth. Polish cream should NOT be used on plated pendants, as this may remove finish. Peoples’ skin types react differently to all types of metals and may cause metal to tarnish.
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How to clean stainless steel keepsake jewelry.
Pour some warm water in a small bowl & add some mild dishwashing soap. Dip a soft, lint-free cloth in the soapy water and gently wipe the jewelry with the damp cloth until the piece is clean. While cleaning, rub item along its polish lines. Wipe the remaining soap off using a moist cloth dipped in clean water. Dry the jewelry well and leave to air dry. After your stainless steel jewelry is clean, you can use a jewelry polish or a polishing cloth to shine it.
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Maintenance and storage for stainless steel keepsake jewelry.
Although stainless steel jewelry doesn’t tarnish or corrode and doesn’t require special care, it can scratch. Wear and store your pieces in a way that minimizes any contact with other items that can damage your stainless steel jewelry. If your jewelry does get scratched, you can have it professionally polished by a jeweler. Store your stainless steel pieces separately from jewelry made of other metals. It is best if you keep your stainless steel items in individual bags or pouches.
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What are the differences between gold-plated, gold vermeil, gold-filled and sterling silver?
Gold-plated Memorial Jewelry has a base metal such as steel or brass. It is dipped into a bath of electroplating solution, with a lump of solid gold. When an electric current is applied, a thin layer of gold is deposited on the metal. Since the plating is quite thin, the plate of color can wear off.
Sterling Silver Memorial Jewelry has a mixture of pure silver and some other metal, usually copper. The resulting alloy gives the silver strength. The standard is at least 92.5% silver. Hence the .925 stamp you see on some sterling silver items.
Vermeil (Pronounced: Vermay) Memorial Jewelry is sterling silver that has been gold-plated. Most of our vermeil is plated with 22K-24K gold. This is a good combination for those with allergy to normal, plated jewelry items. The difference between vermeil, and gold-filled, is in the thickness of the gold and the base metal used. In vermeil, the base is sterling silver.
Gold-filled Memorials Jewelry are not actually filled with gold. They are made of a base metal, usually brass or copper, covered by sheets of gold in a mechanical bonding process. Effectively a thick coat of gold: the gold content is 5% or 1/20 of the total weight. Use gold-filled items for your top-of-the-line jewelry. Usually made with 14k gold, it is hard wearing. With reasonable care it will not peel or flake, and should last as long as solid 14k gold jewelry. It is safe for most people with sensitive skin.
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What is a keepsake jewelry glass dome used for?
When not wearing your memorial cremation jewelry, you may wish to display it in a keepsake glass dome to honor your loved one.
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Filling your keepsake cremation jewelry
It is recommended that you contact funeral professional to assist you with the process.
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Is it ok to wear my cremation jewelry in the shower or during swimming?
No, it is not recommended. The minerals in common tap water will eventually cause the jewelry to tarnish. Gold jewelry reacts with chlorine. Never take your gold jewelry into a pool or spa.
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