5 bizarre alternatives to burial and cremation
Back in the day, there were only two options when it came to dealing with death – you could be buried, or you could be cremated. These days, however, it’s a different story. From being turned into a diamond to having your ashes grow into a beautiful tree, here are 5 bizarre yet incredible alternatives if the “normal” methods sound a little dull.
1. Become a diamond
A number of companies offer people the opportunity to have their (or their loved one’s) hair or ashes turned into beautiful, sparkling diamonds in a range of cuts and colours, so you can be with your loved one even in death and shine forever.
2. Grow into a tree
Thanks to special biodegradable urns, you can “plant” your loved one in their favourite place and watch a beautiful tree grow from their ashes – a great option for nature lovers and those wanting to give back to the earth.
3. Fireworks
Want to go out with a bang? You can – literally. If you’re not a fan of the idea of being trapped in an urn, you can scatter your ashes in style by having them fired into the sky in a glorious firework display – the perfect send-off for the vibrant, bubbly, colourful person in your life.
4. Be pressed into a vinyl record
A US company called And Vinyly (what a pun!) has come up with a way for you to share your favourite song long after you’re gone – by having your ashes pressed into a working vinyl record. The ashes do interfere with the sound, but the “pops and crackles” you’d hear would simply be your loved one’s own stamp.
5. Become part of a reef
Ideal for seafarers, surfers and lovers of the ocean, Reef Ball Australia’s “Rest in Reef” service allows you to have your remains become part of an eco-friendly, artificial reef so you can literally become one with the ocean.
Have you ever heard of (or used) any of these services before? What would you like to be done with your remains when you pass? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.