Where should one purchase a headstone?

A headstone can be purchased from a cemetery, funeral home, third-party retailer, or an online retailer. However, it is recommended that you buy it from a cemetery. This is because a cemetery is not covered by the Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule and may not accept a headstone purchased elsewhere or may charge extra fees for bringing in or installing a headstone purchased from some other place.

A Brief on Headstones: Types, Costs and Where to Purchase

Headstones, also known as tombstones or gravestones, are stones that are placed over graves.  Headstones usually state the name of the person who died, the dates of his/her birth and death, along with other personal information. They may also contain images or quotes.

Types

Headstones come in many different types, including:

Flat markers: They lie flat on the ground at the head of the grave, flush with the grass.

Bevel markers: These types of markers also lie flat on the ground at the head of the grave but rise above the grass.

Slant markers: Slant markers usually sit flat on the ground with the front of the stone angled back.

Monuments: These are tablets, usually standing upright out of the ground.

Ledgers: These lie flat on the ground and cover the entire grave.

Costs

Costs of headstones are generally calculated by their weight. The larger the headstones, the higher is the cost. It is important to note that many times the costs do not include the price of additional features like engraving or addition of custom features like images. In addition, purchasing headstones from third parties or online retailers may cost more, as the shipping charges are commonly calculated by the headstone’s weight.

Where can one buy a headstone?

You can purchase headstones from cemeteries, funeral homes, third-party retailers, or online retailers. However, it is recommended that you buy headstones from cemeteries. This is because cemeteries are not covered by the Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule and may not accept headstones purchased elsewhere or may charge extra fees for bringing in or installing headstones purchased from some other place. 

Cost of a Headstone

I am planning to erect a headstone on my uncle’s grave. I have done a lot of research on the internet about the cost but was not able to get appropriate information. What would be the cost of erecting a headstone? 

Cost will be generally calculated by the weight of the headstone. The larger the headstone, the more expensive it will be. It is important to note that the cost usually does not include any additional features like engraving or addition of custom features like images. In addition, purchasing a headstone from a third party or an online retailer may cost you more, as the shipping charges are commonly calculated by the headstone’s weight. 

Memorial Headstone Ideas and Designs

When you purchase a memorial headstone for a loved one, you want it to represent your loved one in the best way possible. There is an array of ideas and designs that you may need to consider, be it in respect to the material you use or the design and shape of the stone, or with regard to whether you want a photo, a clip art, or word choice for the epitaph.

To come up with a unique and special headstone design to honor and memorialize a loved one, you may need to spend some time to consider what you would like to incorporate in the headstone. Finding out or remembering who they were as persons, their purpose, hobbies or passion, and what they loved and lived for, will help you create the most unique, meaningful and beautiful memorial headstone design.

What you write on the headstone is also equally important. An epitaph is a phrase or form of words written in memory of a person who has died. It could be an expression of affection and love or an appreciation of the person’s life and accomplishments. You also have a choice on how you would like their name to be written on the headstone – for instance, if a person was better known by his or her nickname, you could choose to inscribe the nickname or mention both the birth name and the nickname on the headstone.

When it comes to memorial headstone shapes, there are many options: Flat stones, Pillow Tops, Slant’s, Benches or Uprights. A granite headstone in any shape is a personalized representation of a life well lived. Some cemeteries may not allow certain shapes. Make sure that you check what shapes are allowed in your cemetery before you decide.

You also have the option of adding a photo of your loved one on their memorial headstone. The two common types of photos that can be added are: enameled steal cameos and engraved photos. With enameled steal cameos, any original photo or scanned image can be reproduced and permanently fired into a variety of oval, square, rectangular and even heart-shaped tiles. On the other hand, an engraved photo can only be created on black color granite, using the halftone artwork by breaking the image into small dots. It can give the illusion of a grayscale image. Having a clear idea of what you want will greatly help the designer and sculptor to create the most appropriate and beautiful memorial headstone for your loved one.

Memorial Headstone

I am looking for a memorial headstone for a loved one. What options do I have regarding ideas and designs?

When you purchase a memorial headstone for a loved one, you want it to represent your loved one in the best way possible. There is an array of ideas and designs that you may need to consider, be it in respect to  the material you use or the design and shape of the stone, or with regard to whether you want a photo, a clip art, or word choice for the epitaph. 

What are the materials used for making a headstone?

The following are some popular materials used for making a headstone:

·         Granite

·         Bronze

·         Marble

·         Sandstone

·         Iron

·         Slate

What are the materials used for making a headstone?

A headstone, also known as a tombstone, gravestone, or cornerstone, is a slab that is placed at the head of a grave. It is inscribed with details like name, date of birth, and date of death of the person whose grave it marks.

Most popular materials used to make a headstone

Granite: Granite is one of the most beautiful and durable natural stones. It is strong and comes in beautiful colors. An artisan can skilfully carve intricate designs on a headstone. Since this stone can withstand extreme climates and even acid rain pollution, it is the first choice among-st buyers shopping for a headstone.

Bronze: Bronze is a metal alloy which has been used for centuries for making headstones. It is one of the most popular materials used for making headstones as it does not require much maintenance. It is sturdy and is resistant to harsh weather conditions. It is available in a wide variety of designs and options. This material is less expensive than other types of headstone materials.

Marble: Since this material is ideal for carving intricate designs, a marble headstone comes in very elaborate and beautiful designs. However, due to moisture, it tends to erode over a period of time, thereby leaving the name and other details on the headstone blurry and indistinct.

Sandstone: Sandstone can be cut in different custom shapes and sizes to make a customized headstone. It is available in light colors ranging from sandy to grey. Although it is durable in nature, when moisture gets between the layers of the sandstone, it loses its beauty.

Iron: Iron is durable and can last for generations. However, a headstone made of wrought ironwork may not last for a long time.

Slate: Due to its smooth and pleasing texture, slate headstones were once popular. However, due to the slightly porous nature of this material, a slate headstone crumbles over time. Its popularity, therefore, did not last long.

Materials used for making a headstone

I am thinking of erecting a headstone on my father’s grave. I am confused about what material I should use. What are some popular materials that are used for making a headstone? Which one should I go for?

The following are some popular materials used for making a headstone:

·         Granite

·         Bronze

·         Marble

·         Sandstone

·         Iron

·         Slate

Among all the materials mentioned above, it is advisable to go for a granite stone. It is one of the most beautiful and durable natural stones. It is strong and comes in beautiful colors. An artisan can skilfully carve intricate designs on a granite headstone. Since this stone can withstand extreme climates and even acid rain pollution, it is the first choice amongst buyers shopping for a headstone.

What are some popular headstone symbols?

Here are some popular headstone symbols along with their meanings:

Star: A star represents immortality and divine guidance. There are two types of stars used in a headstone: a five-pointed star and a six-pointed star. A five-pointed star symbolizes the star of Bethlehem and a six-pointed star symbolizes the power of God’s creation.

Cross: A cross is a symbol of the departed person’s religious faith. It also signifies resurrection. A cross symbol found in a military cemetery symbolizes trials, victory, and reward.

Angel: The symbol of an angel inscribed on a headstone symbolizes spirituality. An angel is said to guard the tomb, and is thought to be a messenger between God and man.

Poppy flower: A poppy is a popular headstone symbol. It symbolizes death, eternal sleep and peace.

Rose: A rose symbolizes love, hope, and victory. It also stands for purity of soul.

Bird: A bird is regarded as the departed person’s soul.  A bird symbol on a headstone denotes that the departed person’s life and spirit are eternal. A bird also symbolizes peace.

Anchor: The inscription of an anchor on a headstone generally means that the deceased was a lover of the sea or was in the navy. In spiritual terms, it symbolizes hope, steadfastness and eternal life.

Heart: A heart on a headstone means love and devotion for the departed soul. Two hearts engraved on one monument specifically signifies a happy marriage.

Different Headstone Symbols

When it comes to choosing symbols for a headstone, it is important that you know the meaning behind the symbol you are choosing. Many people think that headstone symbols are chosen randomly, but this is not true. Each symbol has a very specific significance in relation to the deceased. Here are some popular headstone symbols along with their meanings:

Star: A star represents immortality and divine guidance. There are two types of stars used in a headstone: a five-pointed star and a six-pointed star. A five-pointed star symbolizes the star of Bethlehem, and a six-pointed star symbolizes the power of God’s creation.

Cross: A cross is a symbol of the departed person’s religious faith. It also signifies resurrection. A cross symbol found in a military cemetery symbolizes trials, victory, and reward.

Angel: The symbol of an angel inscribed on a headstone symbolizes spirituality. An angel is said to guard the tomb, and is thought to be a messenger between God and man.

Poppy flower: A poppy is a popular headstone symbol. It symbolizes death, eternal sleep and peace.

Rose: A rose symbolizes love, hope, and victory. It also stands for purity of soul.

Bird: A bird is regarded as the departed person’s soul. The bird symbol on a headstone denotes that the departed person’s life and spirit are eternal. A bird also symbolizes peace.

Anchor: The inscription of an anchor on a headstone generally means that the deceased was a lover of the sea or was in the navy. In spiritual terms, it symbolizes hope, steadfastness and eternal life.

Heart: A heart on a headstone means love and devotion for the departed soul. Two hearts engraved on one monument specifically signifies a happy marriage.

Book: A book can represent many different things, including the book of life, often represented as the Bible. It may also depict learning, a scholar, a prayer, memory, or someone who worked as a writer, book-seller, or publisher.

Sword: A sword on a headstone stands for protection. A sword is meant to guard the grave from any negative energies. 

Headstone Symbols

I was looking for a headstone for my uncle’s grave when I came to know of the various symbols used on headstones. I have now decided to inscribe a symbol on his headstone. What are some of the commonly used symbols?

There are many types of symbols which can be used on a headstone. However, each symbol has a very specific significance in relation to the deceased. Here are some popular headstone symbols along with their meanings:

Star: A star represents immortality and divine guidance. There are two types of stars used in a headstone: a five-pointed star and a six-pointed star. A five-pointed star symbolizes the star of Bethlehem, and a six-pointed star symbolizes the power of God’s creation.

Cross: A cross is a symbol of the departed person’s religious faith. It also signifies resurrection. A cross symbol found in a military cemetery symbolizes trials, victory, and reward.

Angel: The symbol of an angel inscribed on a headstone symbolizes spirituality. An angel is said to guard the tomb, and is thought to be a messenger between God and man.

Poppy flower: A poppy is a popular headstone symbol. It symbolizes death, eternal sleep and peace.

Rose: A rose symbolizes love, hope, and victory. It also stands for purity of soul.

Bird: A bird is regarded as the departed person’s soul. The bird symbol on a headstone denotes that the departed person’s life and spirit are eternal. A bird also symbolizes peace.

Anchor: The inscription of an anchor on a headstone generally means that the deceased was a lover of the sea or was in the navy. In spiritual terms, it symbolizes hope, steadfastness and eternal life.

Heart: A heart on a headstone means love and devotion for the departed soul. Two hearts engraved on one monument specifically signifies a happy marriage. 

What are some ideas for unique headstone inscriptions?

The following are some unique headstone inscription ideas:

·         Go for an artist-drawn inscription. With the help of an artist, engrave your loved one’s image and the things he/she loved. This will give people a real glimpse of who the person was.

·         Include the own words of your loved one in the headstone. Go through old letters to find something that represents the person's voice.

·         If your loved one had a favorite song, you can engrave a portion of the lyrics on the headstone.

·         You can also honor your loved one with a quote. You can choose meaningful words from the Bible, a favorite movie, an admired politician or author, something the person always said, etc.

·         You can also inscribe your loved one’s headstone with a coded message.

Ideas for Headstone Inscriptions

I am planning to put some inscriptions on my mother’s cemetery headstone. What are some important inscriptions that I can incorporate?

Inscription on a headstone offers a lasting memorial to your departed loved one. However, it may not be easy to find an appropriate inscription. Depending on the deceased’s personality and sense of humor, you can incorporate one of these ideas:

• Go for an artist-drawn inscription. With the help of an artist, engrave your loved one’s image and the things he/she loved. This will give people a real glimpse of who the person was.
• Include the own words of your loved one in the headstone. Go through old letters to find something that represents the person's voice.
• If your loved one had a favorite song, you can engrave a portion of the lyrics on the headstone.
• You can also honor your loved one with a quote. You can choose meaningful words from the Bible, a favorite movie, an admired politician or author, something the person always said, etc.
• You can also inscribe your loved one’s headstone with a coded message.

What things should I take into consideration while purchasing a headstone?

There are several things you should take into consideration while purchasing a headstone:

•                    The cemetery’s headstone rules

•                    The number of people it will memorialize

•                    The shape, size, and color of the other headstones in the cemetery

•                    Whether you would want to include an epitaph

•                    Whether you would be interested in posting a genealogy

Things to Consider When Purchasing a Headstone

When you begin looking for a headstone, there are several key elements that you must consider. These include the cemetery’s headstone rules, the headstone’s shape, size color,setting, etc.Here are some helpful tips on what to consider before purchasing a headstone:

The cemetery’s headstone rules: If you have selected a cemetery already, ask for a copy of the rules and regulations to see if the cemetery requires a specific type of headstone. Knowing beforehand what the cemetery allows will save your time and energy.

The other headstones in the cemetery: Get an idea of the general shape, size and color of the other headstones available in the cemetery.Headstone prices vary according to its size and type. If you are not concerned about cost, you can find a headstone in just about any shape and size.While most families go in for headstones that resemble the other headstones in the cemetery,others prefer something that will stand out.

The number of people it will memorialize: If you are planning to memorialize more than two people on the same stone, specify your requirements to the headstone company representative beforehand.

Would want to include an epitaph?: Decide beforehand whether you would want to put an epitaph on the headstone. An epitaph is a saying that comes to mind when you think of a loved one. They are optional but look nice.

Would you be interested in posting a genealogy?: Some families choose to have a brief genealogy inscribed at the back of their loved one’s headstone. If you would like to have a genealogy inscribed on your loved one’s headstone for posterity’s sake, gather the names of those whom you wish to include.

Headstone

I have been asked to choose a headstone that will be placed on our dear grandmother’s grave. I don’t know how to go about it. I want to make sure that I buy the best one. What things should I take into consideration while purchasing a headstone?

There are several things you should take into consideration while purchasing a headstone:

•          The cemetery’s headstone rules
•          The number of people it will memorialize
•          The shape, size and color of the other headstones in the cemetery
•          Whether you would want to include an epitaph
•         Whether you would be interested in posting a genealogy