When someone close to your heart dies, it’s natural to want to ensure their final resting place is somewhere they’ll feel happy and at home. Thus, purchasing a headstone or grave monument can be an excellent way to commemorate your loved ones and keep them close to your heart.
You can choose from different materials when purchasing a headstone or grave monument. The stone you select will depend on your budget and your personal preference.
The style and size of the stone may also factor into the decision-making process. You can check out this helpful guide as you figure out which one is right for your loved one who has passed on.
Table of Contents
What Is A Headstone Or Grave Monument?
A headstone is a type of grave marker that marks the resting place of a person, usually inside a cemetery. They are mostly made from granite, marble, or concrete and are meant to be carved on the top and sides with information like the name and dates of birth and death of the deceased.
A grave monument is a type of memorial that helps mark the location of a grave. They can be made from various materials, such as marble, granite, and wood.
A grave monument usually contains information about the person buried in the grave. This includes their name, their birthday, and when they died. They can also have any other information you may want to share with visitors.
A closeup shot of gravestones with a blurred background at daytime
Materials Used To Make Headstones And Grave Monuments
Many materials can be used to create headstones and grave monuments. The most popular materials are as follows:
Granite
When it comes to grave monuments and headstones, one of the most used materials is granite. Granite is an intrusive rock that’s very sturdy and long-lasting. Its brilliant colors make it an excellent option for a headstone or grave monument.
Granite is one of the more durable types of stone and generally doesn’t require any upkeep. It is highly resistant to erosion, so it won’t crack or split over time. It is also naturally waterproof, so you won’t need to worry about damage from the elements.
Moreover, it is a heavy stone, so it is likely to stay put. You don’t want to worry about your grave monument or headstone toppling over and damaging the ground.
Marble
Marble is another prevalent material used in headstones and grave monuments. It is a type of metamorphic stone known for its beautiful white color.
Marble is a soft yet durable stone that will last a long time. It is great for headstones and grave monuments because it can be inscribed easily. This means you can personalize your grave marker with the name of your loved one and important dates related to their life.
Bronze
Bronze is the most widely used metal for headstones and grave monuments. It is a soft, malleable metal that will patinize or age with time to create a rich antique look. Bronze can also be cast in various patinas and designs.
Bronze is ideal for headstones and grave monuments because it is easy to care for and durable. It won’t rust or corrode over time as iron does. Furthermore, bronze stands up well against the elements and does not require painting or polishing to maintain its appearance.
Wood
Another popular material used to make headstones and grave monuments is wood. Wood is an ideal material because it is a renewable resource. It can also be easily recycled and is environmentally friendly.
The most common types of wood include cedar, pine, oak, and mahogany. These woods are all hard, tough, and durable. The darker the wood color, the more durable it will be on the headstone or grave monument. The color of the wood also makes a huge difference in how well it will look against other colors like stone or concrete.
Concrete
Concrete is a cheap and affordable material used for simple headstones and grave monuments. It is easy to shape and mold, making it ideal for creating simple, no-frills markers.
Making A Headstone Or Monument
To create your headstone or grave monument, you must know what you need.
Firstly, you must decide the ideal material and what you want to use. You can choose to create headstones and grave monuments with concrete, wood, or granite.
After you’ve decided on the best material, you must determine what you want to carve on your headstone or grave monument. Now, this can get tricky because you will need professional design software to create the perfect design.
Finally, you will need to work with a company that can help you produce your headstone or grave monument. This is where a specialist will come in handy once again, as they have experience doing such, so you can rest assured they can meet your requirements.
Final Words
The life of a headstone is varied and long. It is a sculpture in stone that memorializes the dead. Although there are many types of tombstones, they are all made using the same basic idea: a base, body, and cap. They will only vary with the materials used.
In the end, it comes down to your personal choice and preferences. Still, consider the few pointers discussed above when picking the best material that fits your needs and budget.
