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 lawn markers?

Lawn markers are grave markers mounted flush with the ground. They are usually bronze plates bolted onto a stone. Carved marble or granite blocks are used in this type of arrangement.

Types of Grave Markers

Grave markers are an integral part of a cemetery. Various styles are available, but some are more common than others. Mentioned below are common styles of grave markers.

Headstones: These are usually made of granite, marble, fieldstone or cement, and are placed at the head of the grave.

Footstones: Footstone markers are placed at the foot of the grave.

Lawn Markers: This type of marker is mounted flush with the ground. It is usually a bronze plate bolted onto a stone. Carved marble or granite block is used in this type of arrangement.

Niche Markers: These are small granite, marble or bronze plaques mounted on a wall in mausoleums.

Companion Markers: Companion markers contain the names of two or more people.

Temporary Grave Markers: Before a permanent tombstone is installed, temporary grave markers are used to mark the plot after burial. Traditionally, it consists of a typed or handwritten card containing the name, birth and death date of the deceased.

Grave Markers

What are the common styles of grave markers?

Some common styles of grave markers are:

·         Headstones

·         Footstones

·         Lawn Markers

·         Niche Markers

·         Companion Markers

·         Temporary Grave Markers

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.