From ashes or hair to gemstones: frequently asked questions about memorabilia
From ashes to gemstones. Or from hair to gemstones. At Mevisto, we have the privilege of witnessing this transformation up close time and time again. And each time, it remains just as fascinating. For those considering having a gemstone created from ashes or hair, important questions often arise that need to be clarified first. With this blog post, we aim to provide clarity by answering some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic.
What is the difference between diamonds and gemstones?
The four major gemstones are diamond, sapphire, ruby, and emerald, all of which are classified as minerals. Sapphires and rubies also belong to the corundum category. A diamond consists of carbon, while the primary component of sapphires and rubies, which are part of the corundum group, is aluminum oxide.
When gemstones are created synthetically, there are differences in the manufacturing process. We have written a dedicated blog post that provides more information on this topic.
What Is a Diamond or Gemstone Burial?
A diamond or gemstone burial generally refers to the refinement of a portion of a deceased person’s ashes (or hair) into a diamond, sapphire, or ruby. This form of memorialization, which is usually linked to cremation, is becoming increasingly popular. One of its main advantages is that the deceased can always be kept close, even after passing. Additionally, a physical memorial site that requires ongoing maintenance can be omitted if desired.
Since multiple loved ones often wish to keep a connection to the deceased in this way, it is possible to create multiple gemstones. Such a keepsake helps establish new and faster neural connections between memories and reality, making it a tangible element that has been shown to aid in the grieving process.
One important consideration: In Austria and Germany, burial laws require that every person must be legally interred. This means that an urn must be buried by a funeral director in a designated area—such as a cemetery or a memorial forest. At Mevisto, we also offer our “Stone of Eternity” memorial site at the cemetery in St. Martin near Linz, along with a dedicated burial package.
Is it even permitted to have a diamond or gemstone made from ashes in Germany or Austria?
In Germany, the separation of ashes is strictly regulated. As a result, the creation of diamonds from ashes is prohibited. However, across the border, legal regulations differ—regional laws always apply. This is why many memorial diamonds are produced in Switzerland, where the handling of ashes is much more liberal.
In Upper Austria, where our company is based, it is permitted to create gemstones from ashes. Additionally, in many parts of Austria, it is allowed to open the urn, extract the small amount of ashes needed, and use that portion to create a gemstone.
Since Mevisto also operates as a funeral service provider, we can easily request urns from Germany—the cross-border transfer between funeral directors is straightforward. Our customers in Germany can also take advantage of Mevisto’s free burial package at the cemetery in St. Martin near Linz. This ensures compliance with burial regulations, allowing the personalized gemstone to be returned home.
If any concerns remain, we are also happy to use hair instead of ashes.
Why is the question of whether this is allowed asked so often?
According to a survey conducted in Schleswig-Holstein regarding the relaxation of cemetery regulations, 75% of respondents clearly supported easing the law. However, despite the majority opinion, the laws remain unchanged. When moving between different German states, one encounters entirely different regulations, making the strict burial laws a significant legal gray area.
This issue may be particularly sensitive because the pain of loss is too profound for individuals to feel dictated to by the state. Perhaps this is also why most of our customers come from Germany.
Our mission is to advocate for greater freedom in burial options. Losing a loved one can cause trauma. In our case, strict Catholic beliefs were the reason our family sought to create an alternative and make it accessible to everyone.
Where in Austria Can You Have a Gemstone Made from the Ashes or Hair of a Deceased Person or Pet?
There are now several providers that create diamonds from cremation ashes. However, Mevisto is the only manufacturer worldwide that transforms ashes or hair into gemstones such as sapphires and rubies. The fact that elements from ashes or hair are truly incorporated into the crystal has been scientifically confirmed by various independent universities.
It has also been proven that no two Mevisto gemstones are alike. While we are all composed of the same elements, their unique compositions vary from person to person. This difference is not only measurable but also visible. That’s what makes every Mevisto gemstone so special. Whether it turns out light or dark is ultimately determined by the deceased themselves.
Can you be part of the production process at Mevisto?
We are very open about our manufacturing process because we take great pride in it. That’s why we always welcome visitors. However, scheduling an appointment is important to us to avoid overlapping with grieving families. If you’re interested, feel free to contact us.
Is It Possible to Create a Gemstone from the Ashes or Hair of Multiple Deceased Individuals?
Yes, it is possible to combine hair from different people—and, if desired, even add pet hair. Ashes can also be mixed with hair. There are no limits to these possibilities.
Does Mevisto Offer Uncut Gemstones?
A gemstone cannot leave our facility completely uncut, as an uncut sapphire is very sharp-edged. However, we have developed the special “Wild Beauty Cut,” which preserves the crystal’s natural shape.
What Are the Available Settings and Placement Options?
Most people choose to incorporate the gemstone into a piece of jewelry, such as a necklace or ring. Others keep the gemstone in a keepsake box or add it to a special memorial space in their home.
