FAQ
What is Mourning Jewelry?
Mourning Jewelry is synonymous with memorial jewelry and is made to commemorate the loss of a loved one. It is often inscribed with their name, birth, and passing date. Although mourning jewelry can be made with a variety of materials, Tempus Metals focuses on recreations using enamel and gold.
What materials are used to make your jewelry?
Our jewelry is crafted using ethically sourced 10k, 14k, or 18k gold, natural diamonds, and enamel. You can choose from rose, white, or yellow gold, and select enamel in white, blue, or black.
Looking for a different color? Just reach out—we’re always happy to accommodate custom requests!
How do I figure out my finger size?
You can contact your local jeweler and ask them to size your finger (Make sure they are using a ring sizer with a similar band width) Wider bands displace more skin and usually need to be ordered in a slightly larger size.
You can also purchase this inexpensive ring sizing set from Amazon and size yourself at home.
(We have verified that this ring set coincides with our personal sizers)
Make sure the ring sizer slides on your finger fairly easily but needs to be wiggled over the knuckle in order to be removed. It’s best to size your finger at a time when you’re not swollen, and not too hot or cold.
Most enamel rings cannot be resized. However, if you have a resizing question or are in need of a repair, please email us at support@tempusmetals.com
What’s the difference between hot glass enamel and cold enamel?
Hot glass enamel is made from powdered glass that’s applied to recessed areas of precious metal. When fired at high temperatures, it melts and permanently fuses to the gold, creating a smooth, vibrant, and durable finish. This traditional technique is compatible only with 18k gold.
Cold enamel, on the other hand, is a high-quality resin that mimics the look of glass enamel but cures at room temperature. While visually similar, it isn’t heat-resistant and can’t be exposed to ultrasonic cleaning or rhodium plating—processes often used for maintaining white gold. Cold enamel is ideal for 10k and 14k gold pieces.
Both enamel types can incorporate cremated ashes, allowing us to create meaningful and lasting memorials in either material.
How is your cremation jewelry made?
Our cremation jewelry is thoughtfully crafted using two different methods, depending on the metal.
For 18k gold, your loved one’s ashes are mixed with finely powdered glass and carefully placed into recessed areas of the design. The piece is then fired in a high-temperature kiln, permanently fusing the glass and ashes to the metal. The result is a smooth, luminous, and durable enamel surface.
For 10k and 14k gold, the ashes are combined with a high-quality resin and applied to recessed sections of the jewelry. The resin cures to a glossy finish, visually similar to glass enamel.
Why do people wear cremation jewelry?
People choose cremation jewelry to hold their departed loved one physically close—especially when distance, grief, or lack of a traditional urn may make access harder. It provides comfort, symbolism, and a personal connection.
Do you need a large amount of ashes to create a piece of jewelry?
Each piece requires approximately ⅛ teaspoon of ashes. We kindly ask that you send 1 full teaspoon to allow for careful preparation, as we may need to sift out larger fragments. Any unused ashes will be respectfully returned with your completed order.
We also recommend setting aside a small amount of ashes for safekeeping, in case your piece ever requires repair or restoration in the future.
How do I get my loved one’s ashes to you?
When you place your order, you can request a free cremation kit—we’ll send a small vessel for the ashes along with a prepaid return envelope. We’ll then send you a confirmation email so you know they’ve arrived safely and are in our care.
Can I get my pet’s ashes made into jewelry?
Yes—Tempus Metals offers Pet Memorial Jewelry, allowing pet owners to incorporate their animal companion’s ashes into a custom piece. These are lovingly designed and part of their bespoke personalization services, crafted with the same attention to artistry and meaning.
Is it ethical to keep ashes in jewelry?
Tempus Metals approaches memorial jewelry with deep care, believing it's not merely about loss—but about love, memory, and connection. Many cultures and individuals find comfort in wearing ashes as a tender way to maintain closeness. When handled respectfully, with consent and intention, keeping a loved one’s ashes in jewelry is widely considered an appropriate and meaningful tribute.
How do I care for my 18k gold jewelry?
Caring for your 18k gold memorial jewelry is much like caring for your bridal set or any other cherished fine jewelry. Most pieces can be gently cleaned at home using warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. For a deeper clean or a professional polish, feel free to send your ring back to us or visit your local jeweler.
Because enamel is made from fused glass, it’s durable but not indestructible. To preserve its beauty, avoid activities that may bend or impact the ring—such as lifting weights, gardening, or doing heavy housework—as this can cause the enamel to crack. Similarly, keep your jewelry away from harsh chemicals, which can damage both the metal and the enamel.
With proper care, your piece will last for generations to come.
For more information on how to care for your Tempus Metals jewelry, click here
How do I care for my 10k and 14k gold jewelry?
Our 10k and 14k gold pieces are crafted with cold enamel—a durable, resin-based material that requires a bit of extra care to keep it looking its best. Because cold enamel is slightly porous, it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals, alcohol-based products, and prolonged exposure to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as these can cause discoloration over time. These rings cannot be put into an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner.
To clean, we recommend using warm water, mild dish soap, and a microfiber cloth.
Just as with our 18k gold jewelry, we recommend removing your jewelry before engaging in weightlifting, gardening, or performing any other heavy household chores.
For more information on how to care for your Tempus Metals jewelry, click here.
How can I be sure my order will be correct?
Orders with personalized text will receive a design proof within 72 hours. The images will show what your piece will look like from all angles so you can verify the design has been done accurately. If there happens to be a mistake, please let us know and we will get it taken care of immediately. Once a proof has been approved, your jewelry goes into casting and no further changes can be made.
What if I have a question about my order, want to change it, or need to cancel it?
Orders with personalized text can be changed until you receive your design proof. Cremation jewelry orders can be modified until we receive the ashes shipment. After your proof is approved or the ashes have been received, no changes or cancellation will be accepted. Please go over your proof and make 100% sure all text is accurate. If you have any questions or need to make changes to your order, please email support@tempusmetals.com
How long does your production process take?
Jewelry production typically takes six weeks from start to finish. If your piece included custom text, you will receive a design proof within 72 hours. After approval, you can expect your finished piece in five weeks. Please add an extra week to production time if your jewelry is being engraved.
Can I expedite my order to receive it sooner than the date given?
Since all pieces are handcrafted and custom designed, turn around time on orders is typically six weeks. If you need it sooner, please reach out to support@tempusmetals.com and we will see if we can accommodate you.
How will my package be shipped?
All our jewelry shipments are insured and shipped using discreet packaging. Inside, you'll see our Tempus Metals branded jewelry box - ideal for gifting and personal storage.
On the day of shipment, we'll email you a shipping confirmation that includes order-tracking information.
Items will ship within 3 business days of completion.
An adult signature (21 years or older) is required at the time of delivery. If it’s likely you won't be home to sign for the package, please consider shipping to your place of work.
Do you offer returns?
Each piece of Tempus Metals jewelry is hand crafted for you. Because each piece is custom created, we do not accept returns on any of our jewelry. However, our goal is for you to be 100% happy with your purchase. If you receive an item with manufacturing defects, email us at support@tempusmetals.com and we will work with you to find a solution. After 14 days, all sales are final. Any returned jewelry, must be in new and unworn condition.
How can I insure my purchase against theft, damage, or loss?
We recommend that you contact an independent insurer or make arrangements with your homeowners' or renters' insurance carrier. Knowing your valuable and treasured jewelry is safely insured will give you peace of mind. We can provide an appraisal for your jewelry purchase for a $95 fee. This report can be submitted to the insurer of your choosing.
Can you repair cracked or chipped enamel jewelry?
Yes. We can repair most enamel jewelry. Please email photos to support@tempusmetals.com for a quote, and we will be happy to mail you a free shipping label.
Do you offer custom design options?
Absolutely! Whether you're creating a memorial piece or designing an engagement ring, we specialize in fully custom jewelry. Our roots are in fine jewelry design, and we truly love bringing one-of-a-kind visions to life.
Have sketches or inspiration images? Send them our way—we’d love to collaborate with you. Let’s create something meaningful and uniquely yours.
Curious about how the custom process works? Visit https://tempusmetals.com/pages/custom to follow a custom ring from start to finish.
What if I want to include an heirloom stone in my custom design?
Our pieces are fully customizable. If you want to include an heirloom stone, please email us at support@tempusmetals.com, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
