There is no single answer, and we will not presume to give one. Families come to us from every tradition. What we can do is explain exactly what happens, so you can talk it through with your family and, if you wish, your religious leader with all the facts in front of you.
Start with what actually happens
Much of the worry in families comes from not knowing what the process involves. In plain terms:
- About five grams of material is used: roughly a teaspoon of ashes or a lock of hair. The rest stays with you.
- The material is purified and its DNA is infused into a certified diamond in about an hour.
- Nothing is used for any other purpose. The material is used in full for your diamond.
- You can be present and take part, or watch by private video.
- We proceed only with informed consent at every step.
- The finished diamond carries an inscription you choose, a DNA Origin Certificate and a blockchain registration, so it can always be traced to your family.
We are happy to put this in writing for you to share, or explain it in person to the family.
Questions families often ask each other
Does keeping a small part of the ashes affect how the rest are laid to rest?
Because so little is needed, most families still carry out their usual rites with the remaining ashes, whether that is a columbarium niche, sea burial or another custom. If your tradition has views on dividing remains, this is the question to raise with your religious leader.
Is it respectful?
For some families, a diamond honours someone in a way they can carry every day. Others prefer the ashes to stay together. Both are respectful choices. It helps to ask what the person would have wanted, if they ever said.
Who should keep the diamond?
Agree this early. If more than one family member would like a diamond, tell us at the start so we can plan for it. Talking it through before you begin avoids difficult conversations later.
How to raise it with your family
- Choose a quiet moment, not the day of the funeral.
- Explain what happens in simple terms (the list above helps).
- Make clear that most of the ashes stay where the family intends.
- Invite questions, and offer to have us explain it directly.
- If anyone is unsure, give it time. There is no deadline.
Speaking to a religious leader
If you would like guidance from your temple, church, mosque or other community, bring the facts: how much material is used, that nothing else is done with it, and that you can be present. We are glad to provide a written explanation for that conversation.
For births, marriages and the living
Not every diamond marks a loss. Couples mark a marriage, and parents mark a child’s birth. These conversations are usually easier, but the same principle applies: everyone whose DNA is used should agree.
Frequently asked questions
Is a DNA diamond allowed in my religion?
Traditions differ, and we would never presume. We give you a clear written explanation of the process to discuss with your family or religious leader.
How much of the ashes is used?
About five grams, roughly a teaspoon. The rest stays with your family.
Can the diamond be made for someone still living?
Yes, with their consent. Couples and parents can mark weddings and births this way.
Can you explain the process to my family directly?
Yes. We can meet the family in person or by video, or provide a written explanation.
Would a written explanation help your family? Talk to our concierge on WhatsApp (+855 16 804 933), Telegram (@EternalDiamonds) or email concierge@eternal-diamonds.com. Tell us who the diamond is for, and we will take it from there.