Memorial Diamond Guide — Algordanza Hong Kong

What is a Memorial Diamond?

A memorial diamond (i.e. burial diamond, cremation diamond, memorial gem, memory diamond) is a diamond created from the carbon extracted from cremated ashes, hair or a combination of ashes and hair.

It’s a unique way to immortalize the memory of a loved one that’s passed and establish a family heirloom to be treasured for generations.

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Creating a Memorial Diamond

Memorial diamonds are real diamonds with the same optical, chemical, and physical properties as natural diamonds. Using a controlled process revolves around extraction and compression of carbon, it replicates the natural geologic process that forms diamonds deep in the earth.

Algordanza’s process is unique in that we allow the natural colour of your loved one’s ashes to come through - with no other additives from foreign sources.

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The 4 Properties of Our Diamonds

Carat

0.2 Ct to 1.0 Ct - there are 9 sizes on offer. Larger sizes available upon special request.

Cut

Several cuts are available, but for maximum brilliance, the full round brilliant cut is recommended.

Clarity

80% of Algordanza memorial diamonds are VS1 or above – high-quality with no visible flaws.

Colour

The natural colour ranges from light blue to intense blue and is influenced by the composition of the ashes.

Pricing Options

Quality Guaranteed

Worldwide we are the only certified producer of Memorial Diamonds. We are committed to caution and transparency.

Certificate

We produce the ALGORDANZA Memorial Diamonds with utmost caution and precision. We document our rigorous quality control with the ALGORDANZA certificate and guarantee authenticity, weight, cut, colour and the origin of the Memorial Diamond having been created from the delivered cremated remains.

Guarantee of Origin

Each order is marked with a unique reference number. Consequently, we are able to retrace every step of the process; starting from the order to the finalized diamond. Throughout the process, we provide the beneficiary with information on the status of the transformation as each stage completes.

svb-schweizer-verband-der-bestattungsdienste

SVB-Membership

ALGORDANZA is a member of the Swiss Association of Funeral Services. Moreover, we commit voluntarily to the standards of the Swiss, German and Austrian funeral homes.

ISO Certified

ALGORDANZA is successfully certified according to DIN EN ISO 9001:2008 for the areas of funeral service, diamond burial (Memorial Diamond), funeral pre-planning.

Notarial Certification

ALGORDANZA assigned a notary to accompany the diamond transformation from the reception of the remains to the confirmation of a gemologist (gemstone specialist). Thus, we are able to provide you with a notarial verification of work with a certified and serious partner.

The Diamond Process

Step 1

Contact Our Sales

Book an appointment to visit our offices. We offer a free 40-minute consultation to explain the process and show samples of our work.

Step 2

Provide Ashes

You can either meet us at your funeral agent’s office or directly bring 500g of ashes to the Algordanza office after proper preparation.

Step 3

Confirm Order

Submit the completed order form and all required documents, and pay the initial 50% deposit. You will also need to confirm the quantity, size, carat and cut.

Step 4

Diamond Production (4-9 months)

The ashes will be sent to our lab in Switzerland with the required specifications, then our experts will get to work in creating your one-of-a-kind diamond.

Step 5

Diamond Delivery

The completed diamond will be delivered back to Hong Kong with its diamond guarantee certificate. The final payment will be made at this time.

Step 6

Order Jewellery

If you would like to set the memorial diamond in jewellery, we offer a selection of styles in our collection, as well as bespoke services for customized pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Why do the diamonds have different colors?

The colour is white, but may have – depending on the individual quantity of the element Boron in the carbon – a blue tint. We do not manipulate the colour of the diamond in any way.

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 jewellery 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.

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 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 the 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

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.

What is a Memorial Diamond?

Creating a Memorial Diamond