When a loved one passes or dies, figuring out how to commemorate their life is among the most crucial decisions you'll ever make. An headstone also known as a monument or tombstone serves as a lasting tribute to the individual as it marks the final resting place of their loved ones and giving space for family members to reflect on and commemorate. Yet, choosing the perfect headstone may be a challenging and emotional choice. Here, we will review the various kinds of headstones, types of materials along with engraving options and other considerations to help you make the best decision to commemorate your loved one's life. Grave Site
What is the definition of a Headstone?
A headstone refers to a large monument of stone placed at beginning of a burial. It's used as a tangible monument to the dead usually engraved with their name, date of birth and death, or other symbols or phrases. Headstones come in various styles dimensions, sizes, and materials giving families the option of choosing the one that best reflects the persona of their loved one, convictions, and family's desires.
Headstones: Types Headstones
Headstones come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. Here are a few of the most commonly used types:
1. Upright Headstones
Upright headstones are the most traditional style. They are placed vertically above the grave, with the text and the details upon the face. The headstones are typically made from marble or granite and can be personalised using intricate designs, like religious symbols, floral engravings or custom designs.
2. Flat Headstones
Also known as grave markers, flat headstones are placed flush with the ground. They are frequently used in cemeteries with a more uniform appearance or where standing headstones can't be found. They're typically less costly than upright headstones, and can be personalised with engraved text and pictures.
3. Ledger Headstones
Ledger headstones enclose the entire top of the cemetery and lay flat on the earth. The type of headstone usually serves as both the marker and also the memorial. It can be engraved with intricate inscriptions, making it an excellent option to create larger memorials, or for families looking to design more of a lavish tribute.
4. Bevel Headstones
Bevel headstones can be compared to flat headstones. They have slightly upwards tilt at the top. This makes the inscription clearer and easier to read. Bevel headstones offer a unique appearance while maintaining the simplicity of a plain marker.
5. Slant Headstones
Slant headstones stand upright, however they're slanted making them more easy to look at while still providing them with a a distinctive appearance. They offer a refreshing alternative to the traditional upright style and can be present in numerous cemeteries.
6. Companion Headstones
Companion headstones are designed to memorialize the graves of two people, often couples. The headstones are upright, flat, or bevel and are often engraved with the names and personal details of both people or even a common picture or symbol. Companion headstones can be found in a range of styles that can be modified to reflect the connection between the two individuals.
Materials Used to Create Headstones
The material used for the headstone plays a key role in its durability aesthetics, cost, and appearance. Some materials are more commonly used due to their resilience to weather conditions, whereas others are selected due to their aesthetic properties. Here are the most commonly used stones used for headstones.
1. Granite
Granite is the most sought-after material for headstones due its strength, longevity, and ability in etching intricate patterns. It is resistant to weathering and is available in a variety of shades, including black, gray, pink, and red. Granite headstones can be maintained with minimal effort and last for years.
2. Marble
Marble is an iconic material that is renowned for its beauty and smooth finish. However, it is more susceptible to staining and weathering than granite, particularly in areas with excessive humidity and acid rain. Marble headstones typically offer a timeless look and are an ideal selection for graves from the past.
3. Limestone
Limestone is a natural stone used in headstones. It's more soft than granite and marble and is therefore easier to carve. However limestone is more prone to erosion and may require a greater amount of maintenance.
4. Bronze
Headstones in bronze are often utilized in conjunction with granite or marble. The bronze plaques are typically mounted to the stone giving a sturdy and attractive surface for engraving. Bronze headstones have a high resistance to weathering and are thought of as the most elegant choice due to their intricate designs and luxurious appearance.
5. Fieldstone
Fieldstone headstones are crafted from natural stones that are normally collected from the vicinity. They have a more rustic, natural appearance and may vary greatly in shape dimensions, size, and even texture. Headstones made of fieldstone are typically chosen for their natural look along with their earth-like connection.
6. Sandstone
Sandstone is an igneous rock that is known for its earthy, warm colors. Although it can be cut easily but it's not as sturdy as marble or granite which makes it less popular for headstones. Sandstone headstones are more prone to maintenance due to their susceptibility to weathering and wear.
The Engraving Option for Headstones
Engraving is among the most meaningful aspects of the headstone. It lets you personalize the memorial, by adding essential details that represent an essence from the person who died. The most popular engraving options are:
1. Name and Dates
The most simple engraving on a headstone includes the individual's full name and date of birth and date of death. This is the essential information used to identify the individual's burial place.
2. Quotations or Epigraphs
Many families decide to add a meaningful statement, a religious phrase, or saying that reflects the deceased's character, beliefs or legacy. A common choice is Bible poems, verses or a simple sentence like "Forever on Our Hearts."
3. Symbols and Artwork
Images and symbols may be engraved, or etched into headsstones to reflect the individual's passions, beliefs or even passions. They could represent religious symbolism such as crosses or angels as well as personal symbols such as books, musical notes or animals.
4. Photographs
Modern headstones are often photos that are engraved or attached to the deceased, providing an extra personal touch. Photos can be incorporated through laser engraving or porcelain plaques, which provide a visual memorial alongside the text.
5. Personalized Designs
If the deceased had specific hobbies, interests, or had a special story to tell and interests, these can be revealed by custom-designed designs. It doesn't matter if it's a scene, an individual's favorite flower, or an emblem of their work The personalized designs allow you to reveal the life of the deceased.
Factors to Take into Consideration When Selecting the Headstone
Selecting a headstone requires more than just choosing the right material and style. There are several factors to take into consideration to ensure that the memorial you choose is relevant, meaningful, and resilient.
1. Cemetery Regulations
Before purchasing a monument, it's important to check with the cemetery about their rules. Certain cemeteries have rules about the size, material, and design of headstones, to ensure a uniform appearance throughout the grounds.
2. Budget
Headstones may vary in cost based on the material size, shape, and design. Granite headstones tend to be more affordable than marble while bronze designs and plaques are more expensive. It's vital to establish the budget prior to shopping for headstones to ensure you pick a headstone that meets both your emotional and financial needs.
3. Maintenance
Be aware of how much upkeep the headstone requires over time. Certain materials, such as bronze and granite require little upkeep, while others like limestone or marble may require periodic cleansing or sealing to prevent deterioration.
4. Personalization
Consider what will truly define your loved one. Find elements that resonate with their personality, values, or religion. This ensures that the memorial can be used as a permanent and meaningful memorial.
Conclusion
A headstone choice is a very personal choice that reflects the life and legacy of the person you love. With a variety of styles, materials engraving options, as well as things to consider, it's vital to be patient and select something that feels right. It doesn't matter if you select simple, unpretentious design or a more intricate custom-designed memorial, your headstone is sure to be a lasting testament to the love and life of the person it commemorates.