The handling of a loved one's remains is a deeply personal matter, and for those who choose cremation service in Bronx, NY, it can be helpful to fully understand what happens to ashes post-cremation. This article aims to provide a detailed and factual insight into the topic, addressing common questions and offering potential options for ashes after the process is completed.

Understanding the Cremation Process

The initial step in understanding what happens to the ashes is to grasp the cremation process itself. In brief, cremation is the transformation of a deceased body into ashes via extreme heat. The resulting residue is purely bone fragments, which are then processed into a fine ash.

What Are Cremation Remains?

Post cremation, the cremated remains that people typically refer to as 'ashes' are actually a mixture of ground bone fragments and calcium phosphates, with a sand-like texture. They are entirely sterile and pose no health risks.

Receiving Cremation Ashes

Usually, following the cremation process, the ashes are transferred into a simple container, unless a specific urn or alternative vessel has been selected. It's important to note that regulations may differ, so it's best to check with the local authorities or cremation service provider.

Options for Cremated Remains

There are a variety of ways family members can choose to handle ashes post-cremation. Here are the most common:

• Scattering: This can occur in a place of significance, like a favorite spot of the deceased. You should check local regulations beforehand.

• Burying: Some families prefer to bury the cremated remains in a cemetery plot, cremation garden, or even in their backyard.

• Columbarium: This is a building specifically designed for storing urns. Each individual space for the urn is called a niche.

• Keepsake urns: These smaller containers allow for the ashes to be shared among family members.

Cremation Jewelry and Art

Another popular trend in post-cremation management is incorporating the ashes into unique pieces of jewelry or works of art. This allows the memory of the deceased to be kept close in a tangible way.

Eco-friendly Alternatives

For environmentally conscious individuals, options such as creating a coral reef or transforming the ashes into a tree are also available, adding to the budding concept of 'green funerals.'

In conclusion, the journey of handling ashes after cremation is a deeply individual process, influenced by personal beliefs, preferences, and traditions. At Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, Inc., we understand the importance of this journey. That's why our cremation service in Bronx, NY, is designed to offer a variety of options to cater to your unique needs and wishes, always performed with the utmost respect and empathy.

Whether you wish to scatter the ashes in a place of personal significance, bury them in a designated area, store them in a columbarium, or even create a unique piece of jewelry or artwork, our experienced team is ready to guide you through these options to help you make the decision that feels most right for you.

Ultimately, the decision rests with you and your loved ones, providing the freedom to choose how you wish to remember and honor those who have passed. With our help at Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, Inc., you can navigate this important facet of the cremation process with expert advice, understanding, and care, ensuring your loved one's memory is preserved in the way you find most fitting.