What are the big chunks in ashes?

The big chunks in ashes are usually larger, unprocessed bone fragments that remain after cremation, as the high heat reduces most of the body but leaves the mineral content of bones, which are then crushed into a sand-like texture, but sometimes larger pieces are left if processing isn't thorough or if specifically requested. These fragments, primarily calcium phosphate, are the main component of cremated remains, often described as coarse grains or small pebbles.

What are the chunks in cremation ashes?

Those light grey flakes are what real ash looks like. Cremation “ashes” are different. They are tiny little fragments of bone that have been hardened by the heat and then ground into uniform particles.

Why are cremation ashes chunky?

Bone composition: Cremation reduces the body to bone fragments (mostly calcium phosphates). These minerals naturally fuse and cement together under heat and pressure, producing hard, chalky fragments that can lock together.

What are the black pieces in human ashes?

They are bone fragments which are pulverized down into a fine dust and granules. There is no part of the box or casket which the deceased was cremated in that is within the cremated remains.

What are the white pieces in human ashes?

This is also why common questions like are cremation ashes bone fragments and “why are there little white pieces?” have such a straightforward answer: yes, those white pieces are usually bone mineral that didn't pulverize into the same fineness as the rest.

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What does God say about keeping ashes?

It's important to note that there are no explicit verses addressing cremation or the keeping of ashes.

Is your DNA still in your ashes?

In most cases, the extreme heat of cremation – ranging from 760 – 982°C or 1400 – 1800°F – destroys DNA completely, meaning that it's not possible to get a viable DNA sample from ashes.

What body parts don't burn in cremation?

During cremation, soft tissues, skin, and organs combust, but bones and the hard enamel of teeth do not burn and remain as fragments, which are then processed into the fine, powdery substance known as cremated remains (or "ashes"). Any metal implants (like artificial joints or pins) also survive the process and are removed before the bones are pulverized. 

How much does a 200 lb person weigh after cremation?

After cremation, a 200 lb person typically weighs around 7 pounds, as remains are generally 3-5% of the original body weight, with 1 pound of body weight roughly equaling 1 cubic inch of ashes, meaning a 200 lb person yields about 200 cubic inches of remains, fitting standard urns. 

Do cremation ashes hold DNA?

The actual ashes are thus useless as they will not contain DNA. It is the bones and teeth that could potentially hold some DNA viable for analysis. However, after the cremation, the bones and teeth left behind are turned into a find powder (a process known as pulverization).

What does God say about cremation?

The Bible doesn't directly forbid or command cremation, focusing more on the soul's journey, but it does show examples of both burial (common practice) and burning bodies for respectful reasons, like honoring King Saul. While burial was the cultural norm, many modern Christian interpretations see cremation as acceptable, viewing the resurrection as God's spiritual act, not dependent on the body's physical state. The key message is respecting the body and trusting God, making the choice between burial and cremation a personal decision based on faith, tradition, or practicalities, not a sin. 

Do belly buttons burn during cremation?

No, the belly button doesn't remain as a distinct, unburned piece; it's a myth that it survives cremation, as all soft tissues, including skin and fat in the navel area, combust at the high temperatures (over 2000°F) of the cremation chamber, leaving behind only bone fragments that are later processed into "ashes". Like other flesh, the belly button burns away, with only dense bone surviving the process. 

What is removed from a body before cremation?

Before cremation, mandatory removals include battery-powered medical devices (like pacemakers) and other explosive implants, while items like jewelry, piercings, and certain metal prosthetics (hips, knees, pins, plates) are removed for safety, to prevent damage, or for the family to keep, though some metals melt and are separated later from the ashes. The body is cleaned, dressed (often in clothing provided by the family), and typically not embalmed unless a viewing is planned. 

Why is the skull broken before cremation?

For many Hindus, it is important that the skull be cracked, urging the departed soul to move on. This is sometimes a significant part of the ceremony. Non-Hindus are often invited to attend the cremation service.

Why do bones not burn in cremation?

Bones don't burn away completely in cremation because they are primarily made of dense, inorganic minerals like calcium phosphate, essentially acting like stone, not flammable organic matter, surviving extreme heat (around 1400-1800°F) that vaporizes soft tissues and leaves behind durable bone fragments, which are then processed into the fine "ashes" known as cremains.
 

Are ashes the whole body?

Myth: You receive the entire body as ashes. Fact: The remains after cremation consist mainly of bone fragments, not soft tissues, which are vaporized during the process. These fragments are processed into a fine, sand-like substance known as cremains.

Are bodies removed from a coffin before cremation?

The coffin and the body inside are cremated together. There are occasions where the deceased or the family of the deceased has opted for using a cardboard coffin in which their loved one will be cremated.

Can a 600 lb person be cremated?

Yes, a 600 lb person can typically be cremated, but it requires specialized facilities, larger equipment (XL retorts and reinforced containers), and often incurs extra costs, as standard crematoriums may not be equipped to handle the increased size, potential fire risk from fat, and longer processing times, so contacting specialized bariatric cremation services is crucial. 

Is it better to scatter ashes or keep them?

Some people find peace in keeping ashes close, while others feel closure in a burial or scattering ceremony. Consider involving close family members in this decision, allowing each person to share their thoughts and feelings about the different options.

Can a body feel pain during cremation?

Cremation turns the body of someone who has died into ashes. This is only done after a person has died, so they do not see or feel anything.

Do they take the clothes off a body before cremation?

No, clothes are generally not removed before cremation; the body is usually cremated in what they were wearing or a simple shroud/gown, with families often choosing specific, combustible attire for viewings or services. While some items like jewelry or prosthetics are removed, clothing is typically left on unless it's damaged or unsuitable (like synthetic fabrics that release toxins). 

Has anyone ever woken up before cremation?

Yes, there are documented cases, primarily in recent news from Thailand and India, where individuals presumed dead and placed in coffins for cremation were discovered to be alive, often due to medical conditions like comas or extreme bradycardia (slow heart rate) mimicking death, leading to premature declarations of death and revival just before the cremation process was to begin. While extremely rare, these incidents highlight the difficulty in determining death and the importance of medical confirmation. 

Can you touch cremated ashes?

Contrary to what you may think, human ashes are actually not toxic and are considered a sanitary, natural substance. Therefore, there is no harm in touching them. Of course, if you accidentally inhale ashes, you may experience some respiratory irritation, but this occurrence is not common if you handle ashes properly.

Can a husband and wife be cremated together?

The answer is yes! Absolutely. Most funeral homes can easily assist you by ordering what's known as a companion urn. This type of urn is specifically designed to hold the cremated remains of two individuals, allowing them to be kept together, whether for display or burial.

Can you tell if ashes are human?

You can potentially identify a person by their ashes through DNA testing on bone fragments or teeth found within the remains, but success is difficult due to the high heat of cremation destroying most DNA. Forensic labs can attempt to extract DNA from denser bone parts like molars or femur fragments. A more reliable method for verification is using the unique identification number or tag placed with the remains by the crematorium.