Frequently Asked Questions
What is the amount of ashes required?
To make any size memorial diamond of up to 1 carat in size, we normally request 500g of ashes split into 2 separate air tight bags. The amount of ashes required and the size of diamond is not relevant; a minimum 500g is still required even if the order is for a smaller diamond size.
How do I prepare the ashes for Algordanza?
Our main requirement is that the 500g of ashes be split into 2 separate air tight bags. This should be handed over directly to our staff at the Algordanza office.
What if I don’t have enough ashes available?
Algordanza is still able to conduct a composition analysis to check if there is enough carbon content to proceed with an order or not. In the case that there isn’t enough carbon, you can cancel the order and the ashes will be returned at no cost.
We also offer Stailas Memorial Diamonds as an alternative approach. Under special needs case, a personal article that once belonged to the deceased is requested (e.g. clothing, plush toys, shoes or journals). Carbon is extracted from these articles and added with the available carbon from the ashes. Contact us to learn more.
Will you use up all the ashes for the diamond?
In most cases, there are more than enough ashes available for the production of a memorial diamond. There is even the option to consume all the ashes within the process so that there is nothing left, except the beautiful memorial diamond. There is no additional charge for this option. It just needs to be defined based on your needs. In Hong Kong, it is common for people to make a memorial diamond and scatter the remaining ashes in the garden of remembrance or at sea.
What documents do I need to submit?
When submitting the order form, you will also need to present the following documents and their photocopies:
- Cremation Certificate;
- Death Certificate; and
- Remitter Hong Kong Identity Card
Is an Algordanza diamond a genuine diamond?
Yes – the Algordanza Memorial Diamond shows the same physical, chemical and optical properties as a dug diamond. We would not be allowed to use the expression “diamond” if we could not prove that the diamond is genuine.
How long does it take to create a diamond?
The average production period is approximately six months, however it is influenced by the size of the diamond being ordered and also the number of orders being processed at the time in Switzerland. Typically, a 0.2ct and 0.3ct diamond will take between 4 - 5 months. Additional time is required for laser inscription and jewelry mounting services.
Upon request, we will provide a schedule of the different stages as the diamond is being processed for those who may be anxious to know the status of their order at any moment in time.
Why do the diamonds have different colors?
The color is usually bluish in tint, but may have – depending on the individual quantity of the element Boron in the ashes – a darker or lighter blue tint. We do not manipulate the color of the diamond in any way.
Can a memorial diamond still be produced even though the person has been deceased and cremated a while ago?
Yes – the age of the ashes is not relevant for the synthesis.
What are your payment terms?
We require a 50% deposit upon the collection of ashes. The remaining 50% should be paid upon collection of diamond.
What payment methods are available?
We currently accept PayPal, cheque and telegraphic transfer. Credit card payment options will be coming soon.
How is a diamond formed from ashes?
This is done via a number of steps (this process can be seen in a quick 1 minute video here).
The ashes are collected in Switzerland this process is explained in another video an acid is added to the ashes to remove the inorganic compounds leaving the carbon and boron
A growing cell is used within the growing cell there is a powdered catalyst a starter crystal is added then the ashes more catalyst is added to fill the growing cell
The growing cell is then placed in a machine that provides a high temperature and high pressure.
After the growing cell cools down it is then open and the diamond is extracted.
The starter crystal is then removed.
You may choose to accept the Raw diamond form or a variety of different cuts.
How do I know the ashes are transported to Switzerland?
You will be given a shipping code the day the diamond is sent to Switzerland, allowing you to track its whereabouts at all times.
The transportation process can be seen in a quick 1 minute video here.
A minimum of 500 grams of ashes is required we provide the service of picking this up at the office or at the funeral home, the ashes are then split into two batches of 250 grams where one is immediately sent to our head office in Switzerland, here you will receive a shipping code allowing you to track its whereabouts at all times. When the head office in Switzerland receives the first batch of ashes they will send us a notification only then will we send the second bash of ashes.
The diamond is prepared in Switzerland taking 4 up to 10 months before being sent back to Hong Kong.
The diamond is then delivered to the office ready for collection.
How are the ashes collected?
We offer the service of collecting the ashes at our office or at the funeral home. More details can be seen in the quick 1 minute video here.
A minimum of 500 grams of ashes is required we provide the service of picking this up at the office or at the funeral home, the ashes are then split into two batches of 250 grams where one is immediately sent to our head office in Switzerland, here you will receive a shipping code allowing you to track its whereabouts at all times. When the head office in Switzerland receives the first batch of ashes they will send us a notification only then will we send the second bash of ashes.
The diamond is prepared in Switzerland taking 4 up to 10 months before being sent back to Hong Kong.
The diamond is then delivered to the office ready for collection.
