A Guide to Basic and Non-Traditional Cremation Urn Shapes

Searching for the perfect urn to memorialize a loved one can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a wide variety of shapes and styles. Whether you prefer a traditional design or something more unique, understanding the different options available is key to finding the right cremation urn. In this guide, we will explore both basic and non-traditional shapes to help you make an informed decision. When it comes to basic urn shapes, you'll find popular options like cylinders, rectangles, and cubes. These classic designs often feature clean lines and a timeless aesthetic that can blend seamlessly into any décor. On the other hand, if you're looking for something outside of the box, non-traditional urn shapes offer a range of creative options. From hearts and flowers to animals and vehicles, these unconventional urns provide a personalized touch and a meaningful way to honor your loved one's personality and passions. Join us as we delve into the world of cremation urn shapes, offering insights, tips, and inspiration to help you find the most fitting memorial for your beloved. 

When it comes to basic urn shapes, you'll find popular options like cylinders, rectangles, and cubes. These classic designs often feature clean lines and a timeless aesthetic that can blend seamlessly into any décor. Cylindrical urns are a popular choice due to their simple yet elegant shape. They offer ample space for storing the ashes and are often crafted from materials such as wood, metal, or ceramic.

Rectangular urns, on the other hand, provide a more traditional and understated look. With their straight sides and flat top, they offer a sleek and minimalist design that can complement both modern and traditional settings. These urns are commonly made from materials like marble, granite, or brass, which add to their classic appeal.

Cubic urns, with their equal width, height, and depth, offer a symmetrical and balanced shape. They are a popular choice for those looking for a simple and compact design. Made from materials such as glass, stone, or metal, cubic urns can be engraved or adorned with personalized elements to create a unique and meaningful tribute to your loved one.

If you're looking for something outside of the box, non-traditional urn shapes offer a range of creative options. These unconventional urns provide a personalized touch and a meaningful way to honor your loved one's personality and passions. One popular non-traditional shape is the heart. Heart-shaped urns symbolize love and are a beautiful choice for expressing the deep affection you have for your loved one. These urns often feature intricate designs and can be crafted from materials like ceramic or glass.

Another non-traditional shape that has gained popularity in recent years is the flower. Flower-shaped urns capture the beauty and vibrancy of life and serve as a fitting tribute to a loved one who had a passion for gardening or nature. These urns come in a variety of flower types, such as roses, lilies, or daisies, and are often made from materials like biodegradable paper or eco-friendly resin.

For those with a loved one who had a special affinity for animals, there are urns shaped like pets or wildlife. These urns can take the form of a dog, cat, bird, or any other animal that held significance in your loved one's life. Made from materials like clay or bronze, these animal-shaped urns provide a whimsical and heartfelt way to remember and honor your beloved pet or wildlife enthusiast.

If your loved one had a particular hobby or interest, you can find urns shaped like musical instruments, sports equipment, or vehicles. These unique urns allow you to celebrate their passions and create a one-of-a-kind memorial. Whether it's a guitar-shaped urn for a music lover or a motorcycle-shaped urn for an avid biker, these custom urns can be made from various materials like wood, metal, or resin.

Selecting the right shape for your loved one's cremation urn is a deeply personal decision. It's important to consider their personality, interests, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Ask yourself if a traditional shape or a non-traditional shape would best reflect their life and legacy. Think about the space where you plan to display the urn and how it will fit into the overall décor. Ultimately, the shape should be a meaningful representation of your loved one's spirit and bring you comfort as you remember them.

Cremation urns come in a wide range of materials, each offering its own unique characteristics and appeal. Some of the most popular materials used for urns include:

1. Wood: Wooden urns offer a warm and natural feel. They can be made from various types of wood, such as oak, walnut, or cherry, and often feature exquisite craftsmanship and detailing. Wood urns can be carved, engraved, or painted to add a personal touch.

2. Metal: Metal urns, such as brass or stainless steel, are known for their durability and timeless elegance. They can be finished with intricate designs or simple engravings, and they often come in a range of finishes, including polished, brushed, or satin.

3. Ceramic: Ceramic urns are prized for their delicate beauty and versatility. They can be glazed in various colors and patterns, allowing for a wide range of customization options. Ceramic urns can be crafted with intricate details, making them a stunning choice for those seeking a unique and artistic memorial.

4. Glass: Glass urns offer a transparent and ethereal quality. They can be hand-blown or crafted with fused glass techniques, resulting in captivating colors and patterns. Glass urns can be personalized with engravings or infused with ashes to create a beautiful memorial that reflects the light and life of your loved one.

5. Biodegradable materials: For those who prefer an eco-friendly option, biodegradable materials like paper, bamboo, or salt are available. These urns are designed to break down naturally over time, allowing the ashes to return to the earth in an environmentally friendly manner.

6. Resin: Resin urns are a popular choice for their durability and versatility. They can be molded into various shapes and designs and are often finished with a realistic texture or color. Resin urns can be customized with engravings or even infused with personal items, such as a lock of hair or a small memento.

One of the advantages of cremation urns is the ability to customize and personalize them to create a truly unique memorial. Many urns can be engraved with the name, dates, or a special message to honor your loved one. You can also choose to add symbols or motifs that hold significance, such as religious symbols, nature elements, or a favorite quote. Some urns even offer the option to include a photo or a piece of artwork that captures your loved one's essence.

For non-traditional urn shapes, customization options are often more extensive. You can choose the color, finish, and texture of the urn to ensure it aligns with your loved one's personality and style. Some manufacturers offer the option to customize the shape itself, allowing you to create a truly one-of-a-kind tribute. Whether it's adding a favorite color, including a personal item, or incorporating a design that represents a special memory, the possibilities for personalization are endless.

The cremation industry has seen a rise in demand for unique and non-traditional urn shapes in recent years. People are seeking more personalized ways to memorialize their loved ones, and urn manufacturers are responding with a wide range of creative options. Some of the current trends in cremation urn shapes include:

1. Nature-inspired shapes: Urns shaped like leaves, trees, or seashells are gaining popularity, as they offer a connection to the natural world and symbolize the cycle of life.

2. Geometric shapes: Unique geometric shapes, such as pyramids or spheres, are becoming more prevalent. These urns provide a modern and contemporary look.

3. Artistic designs: Urns with intricate artwork or sculptural elements are highly sought after. These urns serve as a beautiful and meaningful piece of art in addition to being a memorial.

4. Interactive shapes: Some urns feature interactive elements, such as puzzle pieces that fit together or urns that can be opened and closed. These urns provide a tactile and engaging experience for the bereaved.

5. Miniature shapes: Miniature urns are a popular choice for families who want to share the ashes amongst multiple family members or keep a small portion as a keepsake.

When it comes to purchasing cremation urns with unique shapes, there are several options available. Online retailers, like Oaktree Memorials, offer a wide selection of urns in various shapes, sizes, and materials. You can browse through their catalogs, read customer reviews, and compare prices to find the perfect urn that fits your needs and preferences.

Local funeral homes or crematories may also have a selection of urns available for purchase. They can provide guidance and assistance in choosing the right shape and material for your loved one's urn. Funeral directors are experienced professionals who can offer valuable insight and help you navigate the selection process.

If you're looking for a more personalized and custom-made urn, you may consider reaching out to an artisan or a craftsman specializing in urns. They can work with you to design and create a unique shape that reflects your loved one's life and legacy.

Once you've selected the perfect cremation urn shape, it's important to know how to properly care for and display it. Urns should be kept in a secure and stable location, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. It's also essential to handle the urn with care and avoid dropping or mishandling it.

Caring for the urn will depend on the material it is made of. Wooden urns can be dusted regularly with a soft cloth and polished with wood furniture polish. Metal urns can be cleaned with a mild detergent and a soft cloth, while glass urns can be wiped clean with a glass cleaner. Ceramic and resin urns can be dusted or wiped clean with a damp cloth.

When it comes to displaying the urn, there are various options depending on your preferences. Some people choose to keep the urn on a mantel or a shelf, while others prefer to place it in a memorial display case or cabinet. You can also incorporate the urn into a larger memorial arrangement, such as a dedicated memorial table or a personalized shrine.

Choosing a cremation urn shape is a deeply personal decision that requires thoughtful consideration. Whether you opt for a traditional design or a non-traditional shape, the most important thing is to find an urn that truly reflects the life and legacy of your loved one. Take into account their personality, interests, and style, and consider the space where the urn will be displayed. Remember that customization options are available to create a truly unique and personalized tribute. With the wide variety of shapes and materials available, you can find the perfect cremation urn that will honor your loved one's memory and bring you comfort in the years to come.