Transforming ashes into diamonds: prices and Swiss manufacturers

After a cremation, several options are available to families to honour the memory of the deceased. Among the most unique alternatives is the transformation of ashes into diamonds. This memorial option, still relatively unknown a few years ago, is experiencing notable growth in Switzerland, particularly thanks to the pioneer Algordanza.

The principle is scientifically fascinating: the carbon naturally present in the ashes is extracted and then subjected to extreme conditions of temperature and pressure to artificially recreate the formation process of a natural diamond. The result is a genuine diamond, certified and unique, which carries within it a physical part of the deceased person.

This option raises numerous practical questions. How much does a memorial diamond actually cost in Switzerland? Which manufacturers are available? How long do you have to wait? What are the legal procedures?

This comprehensive guide presents the technical, financial and practical aspects of this memorial alternative. You will discover the players in the Swiss market, the actual price ranges (from 2,500 to over 20,000 CHF depending on options), manufacturing timescales and the ethical questions raised by this practice.

What is a memorial diamond?

A memorial diamond is a synthetic diamond created from the carbon contained in the ashes or hair of a deceased person. This industrial process reproduces the natural conditions of diamond formation: high pressure and high temperature.

Unlike a natural diamond formed in the depths of the Earth over millions of years, the ash diamond is manufactured in a laboratory in a few months. Its chemical composition remains identical: pure crystallised carbon.

This commemorative jewel offers an alternative to traditional methods of preserving ashes. It allows you to keep a loved one close in a discreet and portable way, transforming grief into a personal and unique object.

The symbolism is powerful: the carbon from the body becomes an eternal jewel, unalterable and precious.

The manufacturing process: from cremation to diamond

The transformation of ashes into diamonds follows several precise technical stages:

Receipt of ashes or hair: approximately 200 to 500 grammes of ashes are required, or a lock of hair.
Carbon extraction: purification to isolate the carbon from other elements (calcium, minerals).
Graphitisation: conversion of carbon into graphite, an intermediate form before diamond.
HPHT crystallisation: subjected to high pressure (50,000 to 60,000 atmospheres) and high temperature (1,400-1,600°C) to form the diamond crystal.
Cutting and polishing: shaping the rough diamond according to the desired form.

The complete process takes between 3 and 9 months depending on the size of the diamond and the chosen manufacturer. The remaining ashes can be kept or scattered according to the family's wishes.

Memorial diamond manufacturers in Switzerland

The Swiss memorial diamond market has several players, from the local pioneer to international manufacturers accessible to Swiss families.

Each manufacturer offers different approaches in terms of process, personalisation and pricing positioning. The choice often depends on aesthetic preferences, budget and the family's values (local manufacturing, renewable energy, timescales).

Here are the main players present in the Swiss market.

Algordanza: the Swiss pioneer

Algordanza, based in Domat/Ems in Graubünden, has been the world pioneer of memorial diamonds since 2004. The Swiss company stands out through 100% local manufacturing and the exclusive use of renewable energy.

Their speciality: naturally coloured diamonds that vary according to each person's unique chemical composition. The shades range from deep blue to white or yellow, without artificial treatment.

Algordanza holds several ISO certifications and positions itself in the premium segment with a fully traceable process. The company has transformed over 10,000 diamonds since its creation, becoming the Swiss reference in the sector.

Lonité and other international players

Lonité, a company present in Switzerland and internationally, offers a different approach with more personalisation options. Their range includes artificial colours obtained through treatment: red, green, black, in addition to natural shades.

Other international manufacturers such as EverDear or Heart In Diamond also serve the Swiss market, often with shorter timescales and slightly lower prices.

These players focus on flexibility: extended colour choices, varied setting options and advanced personalisation services. Swiss families can order directly online with secure delivery.

Price of a memorial diamond in Switzerland

The cost of an ash diamond varies considerably according to several criteria. Here are the price ranges practised in Switzerland:

Small diamonds (0.25-0.5 carat): 2,500 to 6,000 CHF
Medium size (0.5-1 carat): 6,000 to 12,000 CHF
Large diamonds (1+ carat): 12,000 to 20,000+ CHF

Factors that influence the price include the size in carats, the colour (natural or treated), the purity, the type of cut (brilliant, princess, heart) and any setting in a jewel.

This cost is in addition to the initial cremation fees, generally between 1,500 and 3,000 CHF. To better understand all the costs, consult our detailed comparison of cremation and burial costs.

Available personalisation options

Memorial diamond manufacturers offer numerous options to create a unique commemorative jewel:

Available sizes: from 0.25 carat (discreet) to 2+ carats (imposing). Most families choose between 0.5 and 1 carat.

Cut shapes: brilliant (classic), princess (square), heart (symbolic), emerald (rectangular), cushion or pear.

Colours: natural shades according to the deceased's composition (blue, white, yellow) or artificially treated colours (red, green, black, pink).

Setting: ring, pendant, earrings, or unset rough diamond. Possibility of laser engraving on the mount with dates or initials.

Each diamond is delivered with a certificate of authenticity detailing its characteristics and origin.

Manufacturing timescales and procedures

Creating an ash diamond requires time. Allow between 3 and 9 months depending on the desired size and chosen manufacturer. Larger diamonds require longer crystallisation.

Order stages:

Contact with the manufacturer and choice of options
Secure sending of ashes or hair (specialised transport provided)
Project validation and payment (often in instalments)
Manufacturing and regular monitoring
Delivery with certificate of authenticity

Required documents: cremation certificate and written authorisation from the family or executor.

The remainder of the unused ashes is returned to the family in a sealed urn. You can then keep them, bury them or scatter them according to Swiss regulations.

Legal and ethical aspects in Switzerland

In Switzerland, the transformation of ashes into diamonds is perfectly legal. Swiss legislation is distinguished by its flexibility concerning the destination of ashes after cremation.

Unlike France or Germany which impose strict constraints, Switzerland grants great freedom to families. No specific administrative authorisation is required to create a memorial diamond.

The consent of the family or executor remains essential. In the case of wishes expressed during the person's lifetime, these take precedence.

Ethical questions: this practice raises debates about the commercialisation of grief and the relationship to the deceased's body. Some religions or cultures see it as a form of respect, others as commodification.

Social acceptance is progressing, particularly among younger generations and expatriate families seeking a portable solution.

Advantages and limitations of this option

Main advantages:

Personal and portable object, ideal for mobile or expatriate families
Eternal durability without maintenance or recurring costs
No grave to maintain or concession to renew
Powerful symbolism: transformation into a precious object
Total discretion if desired

Limitations and considerations:

High cost (2,500 to 20,000+ CHF) in addition to cremation fees
Long waiting time (3 to 9 months)
Variable acceptance according to cultures and religions
Absence of collective place of remembrance for the extended family
Irreversible decision once the process is launched

This option does not replace traditional mourning rituals. It forms part of a complementary approach, often chosen alongside a ceremony or burial or scattering of the remaining ashes.

The memorial diamond represents a unique memorial option, transforming the ashes of a loved one into a precious and durable jewel. In Switzerland, Algordanza stands out as the pioneer of this technology, with prices starting at around 4,500 CHF for a 0.3 carat diamond. The process, which requires between 6 and 12 months, offers numerous personalisation possibilities in terms of size, colour and setting.

This alternative to the traditional urn appeals through its practical and symbolic aspect, allowing you to keep a loved one always close. However, it involves a considerable financial investment and requires thorough family reflection. Legal aspects in Switzerland remain flexible, with legislation broadly authorising this type of practice.

Whatever your decision regarding the preservation of ashes, Wolky supports you in paying tribute to your loved ones. Publish an obituary to inform those around you and create a dignified memorial space accessible to all.

Transforming ashes into diamonds: prices and Swiss manufacturers

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