Santa Barbara, California glass artists Nick Savage and Loren Dion have developed a technique for including a small amount of cremated human or animal remains into commemorative glass pendants, hearts, orbs, and touchstones.
To create the blown glass memorials, the artists lay out the cremains and colored glass then make patterns made from them, infusing them between layers called ‘gathers’ of glass. The piece is then blown and shaped, polished and left to fully cool before it is shipped. The cost varies, but for a small orb it is $275, a large is $400. A heart is $350 US.
Blown Glass Memorials
Cremated Remains Artfully Preserved in 'Memory Glass'
Trend Themes
1. Cremation Memorials - The innovative technique of incorporating cremated remains into glass memorials opens up opportunities for personalized and unique commemorative products.
2. Blown Glass Art - The artistry of blown glass is being used to create beautiful and meaningful keepsakes, providing a new avenue for glass artists to showcase their talent.
3. Emotional Keepsakes - The demand for emotional and sentimental keepsakes is growing, offering opportunities for businesses to cater to a market seeking meaningful mementos.
Industry Implications
1. Artisanal Crafts - Artisans specializing in blown glass can tap into the market for unique commemorative products, offering their expertise and craftsmanship to create personalized memorials.
2. Funeral Services - Funeral homes and crematories can explore partnerships with glass artists to provide families with alternative options for preserving the remains of their loved ones in a meaningful and visually appealing way.
3. Gifting and Souvenirs - Retailers in the gifting industry can consider adding blown glass memorials to their product offerings, providing customers with a distinctive and sentimental gift choice.