The Unique 'Pearl Memory' Service: Eternal Bonds Through Pearls Made from Ashes

Introducing 'Pearl Memory': A New Way to Honor Loved Ones

In a heartfelt initiative aimed at providing solace to grieving families, WataSelica Co., Ltd. has announced the launch of its innovative service called 'Pearl Memory'. Set to commence on October 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM, this service offers a unique way to memorialize loved ones by transforming their ashes into beautiful pearls. The process will begin with the crucial step of inserting the ashes into Akoya oysters on November 10, 2025.

The Concept of 'Pearl Memory'

The concept behind hand-held memorialization is to keep the remains of the deceased close, allowing families to honor their memory in a personal space like their homes. Traditional methods of remembrance have evolved, with many choosing to store ashes in decorative urns or pendants, while others opt for unique creations like diamonds fashioned from ashes. As a modern alternative to conventional graves or altars, 'Pearl Memory' represents a shift toward a more comforting and personal approach to remembrance.

Partnering with Ubi Co., Ltd., which specializes in creating pearls from pet ashes through a method known as 'Pearl Funeral®', WataSelica aims to bring this service to individuals wishing to honor their loved ones. Emphasizing the careful handling of remains, 'Pearl Memory' will utilize an IC chip embedded in each pearl nucleus to ensure the identification of the individual’s ashes throughout the process.

A Distinctive Approach to Memorialization

As families engage with 'Pearl Memory', they can reflect on their loss while nurturing a new bond with their loved one. The pearls produced from the Akoya oysters will take approximately a year to form. Unlike any other memorialization method available in Japan, this service promises to imbue the pearls with the unique traits of the individual they represent. As they catch light, the pearls will reveal a stunning array of colors and reflections, creating a deeply personal memorial.

The Craft of Pearl Creation

The pearl production process is overseen by Takao Shimizu, a master of pearl cultivation renowned for his work in the field. Shimizu, known for creating the 'Rainbow Guardian Pearl' for Ubi’s Pearl Funeral®, guarantees high-quality pearls infused with the essence of the deceased. Over the span of a year, families can expect to receive exquisite pearls measuring over 8mm in diameter, each reflecting the unique spirit of their loved one.

The Ideal Environment for Growth

The oysters will be nurtured in Narushima, located at the heart of the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. It boasts warm waters rich in nutrients and exceptional transparency, providing an ideal habitat for the oysters. This pristine environment is conducive to the healthy growth of the Akoya oysters entrusted with the remains, further enhancing the quality of the resulting pearls.

Advanced Identification Technology

To ensure accuracy in the identification of ashes, each pearl nucleus will include an EPC Gen2 IC chip, adhering to international standards. This innovative feature allows for secure tracking, ensuring that the final pearl can be matched unerringly to the family’s cherished memories.

Service Overview

- Service Name: Pearl Memory
- Price: ¥385,000 (tax included)
- Creation Period: Approximately one year

Application Schedule

- Spring Batch: Applications open from October to April, with nucleus insertion from May to July and expected pearl birth around the following May.
- Autumn Batch: Applications from May to September, with nucleus insertion from November to January and expected birth around the following November.

To celebrate the launch of this service, applications for the autumn round will be accepted exclusively from October 7 to October 15, 2025. Those who apply during this window can participate in the nucleus creation and insertion ceremony in Narushima on November 10, 2025.

Process of Creating a Pearl

1. Nucleus Creation: The collected ashes will be finely ground and encapsulated within the IC chip-laden nucleus.
2. Nucleus Insertion: Shimizu will carefully insert the nucleus into the Akoya oyster, with this step strategically performed in spring and autumn.
3. Nurturing: The inserted oysters will undergo a recovery period in gentler waters.
4. Final Growth: The oysters are relocated to larger nets for optimal growth, during which they will be monitored and cleaned.
5. Pearl Birth: After one year, the deal oyster will yield a beautiful pearl encapsulating the essence of the loved one, delivered in a special case.

Remarks from WataSelica's President

Masaaki Akabane, the President of WataSelica, expressed, "With the introduction of 'Pearl Memory,' we aim to provide a path for families to cherish their loved ones. Holding the pearl made from cherished ashes can bring a sense of comfort and ongoing connection to the departed. We are committed to supporting families in finding meaningful ways to honor their loved ones in accordance with their wishes."

WataSelica continues to develop bespoke memorial services that resonate with families’ needs.