When my first snake died about 15 years ago, I ended up digging a grave for him.
I likely could not live day in and day out looking at my beloved past pets if they were inanimate.
However, cremation may be an alternative.
On that note, one of my girlfriend's professors found this company that does the oddest of things with the ashes of your past pet (or family member).
They create an artificial diamond! Quite expensive (they have a price list with the cheapest being $2500, if I recall), which is understandable, as creating an artificial diamond requires EXTREME temperature and pressure!!!
Here's a link if anyone wants to check it out:
LifeGem for Pets - Memorial Diamonds created from a lock of hair or cremated remains / ashes / cremation
Interesting is all I have to say...