Outline:
A Unique Approach to Memorial Jewelry
In the basement of her home in Trevorton, Jolene Retallack is hard at work on a pendant at her craft table. This isn’t just any piece of jewelry; it’s a meaningful creation that incorporates cremated remains and petals from her wedding bouquet. For Retallack, this is more than a business—it’s a heartfelt way to honor loved ones and help others through their grief.
Retallack started this unique business after her stepfather passed away a few years ago. She was looking for something meaningful to give her mother as a way to keep her stepfather close. While searching online, she found some pieces that used ashes but didn’t feel quite right for her mom. That’s when she realized she could create something special herself.
"I saw some pieces that really showed the ashes, and I felt that she would feel a little closer to him that way," Retallack said. After experimenting with different techniques, she made a piece for her mom and posted it online. The response was overwhelming—people began reaching out asking if she could create similar pieces for them.
Expanding the Business
What started as a small project quickly grew into a full-fledged business. Retallack now offers a variety of memorial items, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and even sun catchers and keychains. She says she can make almost anything, as long as it’s within reason.
"People have sent me a loved one’s shirt or even flowers to put into a piece," she explained. Her process involves using a small amount of cremated remains, which she collects from funeral directors. "I usually get it from the funeral director. I’ll pick them up so families don’t have to handle it. I only need a tiny bit."
Retallack uses makeshift baggies provided by funeral directors to label the remains and ensures they know how much to provide based on the customer’s order. This careful approach helps maintain the integrity of the final product while respecting the wishes of the families.
The Creative Process
The time it takes to complete a piece varies depending on what Retallack is making. She uses different types of resins, some of which take a few days to set, while others, like UV resin, set overnight under a UV light. The most time-consuming part of the process is often the actual jewelry setting.
For many customers, the experience of working with Retallack is deeply therapeutic. She collaborates closely with each client, discussing past memories, birthstones, and favorite colors. "We do a lot of collaboration because everything is customized," she said. "I think that is very therapeutic for a lot of people."
A Heartfelt Mission
Retallack finds immense satisfaction in knowing that her work helps others during difficult times. She sees her creations as more than just jewelry—they are symbols of love, remembrance, and healing. Her dedication to her craft has not gone unnoticed, and she continues to receive messages from people who appreciate the care and thoughtfulness she puts into every piece.
If you’re interested in learning more about Retallack’s work or placing an order, you can visit her Facebook page. Each piece tells a story, and for those who choose to create with her, it’s a way to keep a loved one close in a truly unique and personal way.