ANIMAL lovers now have a unique way to stay close to beloved pets who have died... by having their ashes turned into jewellery.

The trinkets with a difference are the brainchild of Erskine businessman James Kane.

Owners can wear their deceased animal in the form of a ring, pendant, earrings or cufflinks.

They can even have the animal’s ashes made into a paperweight.

And 63-year-old James is confident he is barking up the right tree by launching his Treasured Pets business.

He told The Gazette: “We produce bespoke, special keepsakes of treasured pets.

“It can be your cat, dog, horse or any animal that is special to you.

“Having jewellery made of a much-loved pet who has passed away is a nice way to keep them in your thoughts.”

The memoriam jewellery is created by taking a spoonful of pet ashes and mixing it into a crystal.

This is then set in a quality metal, such as sterling silver, nine-carat gold or white gold, and shaped into the chosen product.

“More and more people are starting to cotton on to the idea that pet owners adore their animals and it can be devastating to lose them, just as it is devastating to lose any loved one,” said James.

“Some people might not know what to do with the ashes once their pet has died but, this way, they can carry them around in a beautiful piece of jewellery.”

James also offers a range of pet scents with catchy names, including doggy brand CK9 – not to be confused with the Calvin Klein CK1 brand that is so popular with humans.

Other animal colognes on offer from the Treasured Pets collection include Bark Opium, Dogo Boss and even a David Barkham scent.

These are typically used as a hygiene spray after four-legged friends have had a particularly muddy walk in the park but they can also be worn for special occasions.

James said: “Most people treat their pets like part of their family, so it seems like a step in the right direction to start branching out past simply leads and collars.

“Whether owners want their pets looking and smelling their best at present or wish to keep a lasting memory of them once they have passed on, we think our products will appeal to any animal lover.”

To find out more about the products, visit www.treasuredpets.co.uk or call James on 0141 812 4491.