As more Americans opt for cremation, a New Mexico company is offering a new way to plan for lifes final milestone — one that turns ashes into something tangible and lasting.
Parting Stone, known for transforming cremated remains into smooth, touchable stones, has launched its new Pre-Need Plans, allowing people to make advance arrangements and ensure their loved ones receive solidified remains instead of ashes.
A majority of Americans plan their own funerals in advance, and according to the National Funeral Directors Association, the U.S. cremation rate now exceeds 60%. As more people opt for cremation, families are increasingly searching for more meaningful ways to preserve memories.
Through Parting Stones patented process, 100% of a persons remains are converted into 40 to 80 natural stones — each unique in shape, color, and size. The new Pre-Need Plans make it possible to secure those wishes ahead of time, sparing families from the financial and emotional uncertainty that can accompany loss.
“Prepaying for my Parting Stones has given me priceless peace of mind,” said end-of-life planner Melanie Lenci. “Knowing that my wishes will be honored, while removing the cost and guess work my grieving loved ones would otherwise have to face gives me goose bumps.”
Justin Crowe, founder and CEO of Parting Stone, said the Pre-Need option helps individuals take control of their legacy while giving their families a comforting and shareable alternative to ashes. Creating a Pre-Need Plan can be done entirely online at plan.partingstone.com. Users select their preferences, fund their plan, receive a digital contract, and notify loved ones — ensuring their choices are known and honored.
Since its founding in 2019, Parting Stone has served more than 12,000 families across the U.S. and Canada. Its solidified remains are now offered by more than 1,000 funeral homes nationwide, reflecting a growing movement toward personalization in memorial planning.