While some are interested in the prospect of wearing a piece of their loved one in the form of a beautiful diamond, there are others who need to know exactly how the LifeGem process works. There are plenty of skeptics that find it hard to believe how this procedure takes place and are curious about the involved steps. This article takes you through what you need to do for the process to take place and what LifeGem does once they get a hold of cremated remains.
What Do I Need to Do?
Once your loved one has been cremated, you will need to pay a visit to the LifeGem website (
www.lifegem.com
) to fill out an order form. It is important to enter all pertinent information so that the tracking system most benefits you, as well as helps with the proper identification of your loved ones remains. Next, you will select the LifeGem of your choice. This includes
size, cut, color, and any personalized words you’d like to include. Additional charges do apply for inscriptions.
Once you complete the payment information section and review the terms of your order, you will need to make a decision on how the excess remains will be handled. Authorization, date, and signature are needed to complete the paperwork. LifeGem will then need no more than 8 ounces (about 1 cup) of cremated remains to continue the process. This should be sent in a tightly secured plastic baggie or plastic container. It is very important that all you send is 8 ounces of remains because this is all that is needed to complete the LifeGem process.
The last step to send the package of remains in a small shipping box with the sealed 8 ounces of remains; signed order form; and 50% deposit if paying by check to the address listed on the main website.
How Much Does This Cost?
Prices for a LifeGem varies, depending on the carat size, color, and ordered amount. For example, one of the most expensive selections is called the Blue LifeGem Diamond Collection, which costs $3,499 for a blue diamond with a carat size between
.20 – .29 and up to $19,999 for a carat size between .90 – .99.
How Long Does It Take?
Although a diamond that comes from the earth takes millions of years to occur , a LifeGem diamond only takes 24 weeks.
How Are LifeGem Diamonds Made?
LifeGem uses the carbon that comes with a cremation to create diamonds from human (or pet) remains. While other lab-synthesized diamonds have been generated for many years, the LifeGem process differs because instead of using carbon that comes from nature, the company uses the carbon extracted from cremated remains. To summarize the LifeGem process:
Step 1: Carbon Extraction
Carbon is extracted from the cremated remains of a human or pet, but may also come from a lock of hair. Intense research and development has enhanced the techniques used in this process of transforming human remains into diamonds. The technology used by LifeGem utilizes unique high-nitrogen and low-oxygen surroundings. While the first LifeGem diamonds came from cremation carbon, a lock of hair opens the doors for a wide-range of possibilities , including LifeGems for the living
Step 2: Purification
Once carbon has been captured, it is heated to extreme temperatures under special conditions. While removing the existing ash, the process converts the carbon received from a loved one into graphite, which permits the creation of a one-of-a-kind diamond.
Step 3: Creation
The creation of the LifeGem begins when the graphite is placed in a unique diamond press that mimics the high force needed to create diamonds. The pressure that the presses simulate is comparable to the heat and pressure found deep within the earth. The more time the remains spend in the press, the larger the diamond crystal will become.
Step 4: Certification
The last step involves the skilled work of a diamond cutter, who facet LifeGem diamonds according to the wishes of family members. This may include lasering an etch on the girdle. They will also certify its authenticity. The LifeGem undergoes the same certification process as the kind of gems found in the local jewelry store , a trained gemologist from the
Gemological Institute of America (GIA) places his or her mark of approval.