About Us
At Engrave Ink™, we believe that when it comes to honoring a loved one, truth and transparency matter. That’s why every step of our process — from the moment we receive your loved one’s ashes to the final drop of ink — is documented, traceable, and grounded in real science.
We specialize exclusively in transforming cremated ashes into high-quality commemorative tattoo ink through a controlled, medically sterile process. Our proprietary system is designed to uphold not only the emotional significance of your memorial, but also the scientific integrity required for something that goes beneath your skin.
Our Process:
Science, Not Science Fiction
As this industry has grown, so have the marketing claims — many of which are scientifically unfounded, vague, or outright impossible. We’ve seen references to:
“Molecular refinement”
“Liquid sterilization protocols”
“Diamond-like carbonization”
These phrases may sound impressive, but they don’t hold up under scientific scrutiny.
At Engrave Ink, we do not rely on marketing jargon. Here’s what we actually do:
- Single-Client, Serialized Batches: We work with only one set of ashes per batch, tracked through a serialized production system. From the moment the ashes arrive to the moment the ink is shipped, each stage is documented for complete chain-of-custody assurance.
- Thermal Carbon Refinement: We use a graphite-based pyrolysis chamber that reaches over 2,800°F in an oxygen-controlled environment to thermally refine the ashes. This ensures that all organic remnants are neutralized and the carbon is sterilized at a molecular level.
- Triple Filtration System: After thermal treatment, the ashes are filtered through a proprietary three-stage system: dual pre-filtration followed by a lab-grade microfiltration step. This reduces the ash to a highly consistent 40μm (micron) particle size.
- Ink Integration via Mechanical Agitation: The refined carbon is gently infused into our premium tattoo ink using controlled, mechanical agitation. This ensures consistent dispersion of particles, without degrading the ink or compromising its safety.
Cutting Through the Noise: Truth vs. Marketing Claims
✘ “Reduced to the molecular size of pigment”
False. Cremated ashes are composed of inorganic mineral fragments, primarily calcium phosphate and trace carbon. Pigment molecules are measured in nanometers (nm). Even the most advanced microfiltration systems can only reduce ashes to micron-scale particles — a size that is 1,000 times larger than a molecule. Claiming otherwise is not just misleading — it’s physically impossible.At Engrave Ink, we use a multi-stage filtration system to reduce ash to a consistent 40μm (micron) particle size — a medically safe and verifiable threshold. We don’t exaggerate — we measure.
✘ “Carbonization using diamond manufacturing techniques”
Completely inaccurate. Diamond synthesis from cremated remains uses high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) systems over several weeks to grow a diamond — a process that has no overlap with ink formulation. It’s an entirely different field, with entirely different goals, temperatures, and materials.
Engrave Ink uses controlled pyrolysis to refine trace carbon already present in the ashes — a verifiable, documented process rooted in real chemistry.
✘ “Advanced liquid sterilization techniques”
Misleading. Cremation itself achieves temperatures above 1,400°F, which is sufficient to neutralize microbial life and most organic material. However, it does not eliminate all structural or elemental inconsistencies within the ash — nor does it refine trace residual carbon for medical-grade applications.
Claims of “liquid sterilization” post-cremation are scientifically questionable. There is no validated method where liquid treatments meaningfully improve ash sterility — and worse, such treatments may alter the ash’s composition, introduce contaminants, or compromise compatibility with ink.
At Engrave Ink, we go far beyond cremation’s baseline by performing dry thermal refinement using graphite-based pyrolysis at over 2,800°F in an oxygen-controlled environment. This not only reinforces sterility but also refines and homogenizes carbon content, allowing for safe, consistent integration into ink.
Why This Matters
We’re not here to play on emotion with empty words. We’re here to honor your loved one’s memory with precision, integrity, and transparency. Every step of our process — from intake to final formulation — is traceable, documented, and backed by real science.
Trusted by Tattoo Artists. Chosen by Families.
Our inks are trusted by licensed tattoo professionals nationwide for their consistency, safety, and performance. We serve families who seek more than just a product — they want a lasting keepsake rooted in care, scientific integrity, and meaningful remembrance.
We encourage all families to ask questions, compare processes, and demand transparency.