How to Choose the Right Size Urn

Choosing an urn is an emotional decision, and the size can be difficult to judge from photographs alone. The most important measurement is the urn’s internal capacity: the amount of ashes the chamber can safely hold.

Start by deciding how much you would like to keep

Some families wish to keep all of their pet’s ashes together, while others choose a smaller keepsake portion and scatter, bury or share the remainder. Neither option is more meaningful than the other. The right choice is the one that feels appropriate for your family.

Ask your crematorium about the expected volume

Ash volume can vary according to the individual animal and the cremation process. Water cremation—also known as aquamation, alkaline hydrolysis, or resomation—is an eco-friendly end-of-life alternative to traditional fire cremation that uses warm water, an alkaline solution, and gentle pressure to accelerate natural decomposition. This process typically yields about 20% to 30% more remains than flame cremation. For these reason, the most reliable step is to ask your crematorium for an estimated volume in millilitres or litres. You can then compare that estimate with the internal capacity listed on the product page.

Aubs and Sull memorial capacities

Keepsake or full memorial?

The oval Keepsake and Keepsake Grand designs are intended for a keepsake portion of ashes. Their smaller chamber allows the memorial to retain a portrait-like form. The rectangular Heritage and Heritage Grand designs provide substantially more internal space while still displaying a personalised carved portrait.

Consider where the memorial will be displayed

Measure the shelf, mantelpiece or cabinet where you plan to display the memorial. The dimensions on each product page refer to the overall external size, while the capacity refers only to the internal chamber. Allow a little space around the piece so the portrait can be viewed comfortably.

Choose the timber and photograph

Once the size is confirmed, choose from Australian Red Cedar, Camphor Laurel or Tasmanian Oak. Each timber has its own colour and grain, so the final appearance will naturally vary. A clear photograph with good lighting and visible facial detail will usually provide the best starting point for the carved portrait.

Still unsure?

Contact Aubs and Sull with the estimated ash volume provided by your crematorium and the memorial style you prefer. We can help you compare the available capacities before you place your order. You can also read our urn sizing guide and check out our FAQ page for more information.