Types of Cemetery Monuments

A cemetery monument is a type of structure explicitly created to commemorate a person and pay tribute to his or her life. Many cemeteries have several regulations on what type and size of monument they will allow. The following are some of the most common types of cemetery monuments found in cemeteries today:

Slant style monument: A slant-style monument can be used for a grave designed for 1 or 2 burials. A slant style monument is normally low to the ground and can be one to two feet high, with the polished face sloping at about a 45 degree angle. Many cemeteries have specific rules and regulations about the sizes of slant that can be used.

Single monument: The single monument is a vertical tablet used to identify a single burial plot which in many cases can accommodate up to two interments. It consists of a top stone and base.

Double monument: A double monument is designed for couples who wish to have adjoining burial sites in order to show their eternal commitment to each another.

Upright monument: This type of monument is most commonly found in older cemeteries, and includes a standing headstone and other tablets. An upright monument consists of two separate pieces: a top piece that stands upright and a base for the top to rest upon on. This monument is made of a number of materials, including granite, marble, slate and sandstone.

Large plot sized monument: A large plot sized monument is usually designed for 6 – 12 burials or even more. The layout of the lettering and location of the design play a role in determining how many names will eventually fit on the entire monument.

Flush monument: A flush monument lies flush with the ground. It is generally twenty-four inches by twelve inches, but can be larger or smaller depending on a cemetery’s requirements.