If a loved one dies in death, figuring out a way to honor their memory is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Headstones, sometimes known as a gravestone or tombstone can be used as a long-lasting tribute to the person who died as it marks the final resting place of their loved ones and creating a space for family and friends of loved ones to reflect and remember. The choice of the ideal headstone can be an arduous and emotional choice. Here, we'll discuss the different types of headstones, materials used to make them, engraving options, and other considerations to help you choose the most appropriate option to commemorate your loved one's life. Grave Site
What is a Headstone?
A headstone can be described as a huge stone marker placed at the beginning of a burial. It's used as a tangible monument to the deceased and is usually inscribed with their name, date of birth and death, and sometimes other meaningful meanings or words. Headstones come in various styles, sizes, and materials giving families the option of choosing the best one to reflect the person they love dearly, their values, and desires.
Types of Headstones
Headstones come in a range of sizes, shapes and designs. Here are some of the most popular types:
1. Upright Headstones
Upright headstones are the most classic type. They are positioned vertically over the grave, and include the text and the details of the grave on their front. The headstones of these are usually made from marble or granite and can be personalised using intricate designs, including flower engravings, religious symbols, or custom artwork.
2. Flat Headstones
Also referred to grave markers, flat headstones are placed flush with the ground. They are most often found in cemeteries with a uniform look or when standing headstones can't be found. They're typically less costly than upright headstones. They can also be personalized by engraving text as well as images.
3. Ledger Headstones
Ledger headstones cover the whole top of the grave, and are placed flat on the ground. This kind of headstone typically serves as both a marker and memorial. It is able to be engraved with intricate inscriptions, making it an ideal choice when you want to have a larger memorial or families who want to make an elaborate memorial.
4. Bevel Headstones
Bevel headstones look similar to flat headstones. They have the slight upward tilt towards the top. This makes the inscription more noticeable and easier to read. Bevel headstones provide a distinctive appearance while maintaining the simplicity of a simple marker.
5. Slant Headstones
Slant headstones are upright but have a slanted style, making them easier to look at while still providing them with a distinct appearance. They offer a more modern alternative to the upright style and are seen in many cemeteries.
6. Companion Headstones
Companion headstones mark the graves of two people, most often couples. The headstones are flat, upright, or bevel, and are typically designed with the names as well as information about the lives of the two individuals, sometimes including a shared sign or picture. Companion headstones can be found in a wide range of styles. They are modified to reflect the connection between the people.
Materials Used to Create Headstones
The material of the headstone plays a significant aspect in its longevity aesthetics, cost, and appearance. Certain materials are commonly used due to their resilience to the elements, while others are selected for their aesthetic appeal. Here are some common types of headstones that are used:
1. Granite
Granite remains the top popular material for headstones due to its durability, strength and ability to sculpt intricate images. It's impervious to weathering and comes in a variety shades, including black, gray, pink, and red. Granite headstones tend to be low maintenance and last for years.
2. Marble
Marble is a well-known material appreciated for its elegance as well as its smooth, even surface. However, it is more susceptible to weathering and staining than granite, especially when it is in areas with high humidity or acid rain. The headstones of marble often offer a timeless look and are often a selection for graves from the past.
3. Limestone
Limestone is yet another natural stone used for headstones. It's more soft than granite and marble and therefore is more straightforward to carve. However limestone is more prone to wear and tear over time, and will require more attention.
4. Bronze
Bronze headstones are often employed with marble or granite. The bronze plaques are typically fixed to the stone, creating a tough and elegant surface for engraving. Bronze headstones are highly resistant against weathering and are regarded as the ultimate choice for upscale design due to their intricate designs as well as their rich appearance.
5. Fieldstone
Fieldstone headstones are created from natural stones which are generally collected from the vicinity. These stones have a natural, organic look and could vary significantly in shape size, texture, and shape. Fieldstone headstones are often chosen for their natural look as well as their connection with the Earth.
6. Sandstone
Sandstone is one of the sedimentary rocks that is famous for its earthy, warm tone. Although it can be cut easily but it's not as tough as marble or granite making it less suitable for headstones. Sandstone headstones require more maintenance due to their susceptibility to wear and weathering.
Design Options to Engrave Headstones
The engraving is one of the most important aspects of a headstone. It lets you personalize the memorial and add significant details that express what is important to the deceased. Some of the engraving options you can choose from are:
1. Name and dates
The most basic engraving on a headstone includes the person's full name as well as the date of birth and date of death. This is the essential details that identify the individual's final resting spot.
2. Excgraphs or quotes
Many families prefer to include an important phrase, religious quote, or other expression that speaks to the deceased's faith, character, or legacy. A common choice is Bible verses, poetry, or a simple remark like "Forever at the Heart of Our Hearts."
3. Symbols and Artwork
Images and symbols can be engraved on the headstone to signify your individual's preferences, beliefs or passions. They could be religious symbols such as crosses or angels and personal symbols such as book covers, musical notes or animals.
4. Photographs
Modern headstones often feature images engraved or affixed to the deceased. This gives them an additional personal touch. The photos can be added by laser engraving or porcelain plaques. These provide an image of the deceased alongside the message.
5. Personalized Designs
If the deceased had specific interests, hobbies, or had a distinct story and interests, these can be revealed in custom designs. If it's a scenic scene, the flower of their choice, or an image of their occupation The personalized designs allow you to convey the story of the person's life.
Aspects to be Considered When Choosing the Headstone
The process of choosing a headstone is more than just picking the material and style. There are many factors to consider to ensure that the monument is appropriate, meaningful and sturdy.
1. Cemetery Regulations
When purchasing a headstone it's important to check with the cemetery for its guidelines. There are many cemeteries that have rules regarding the size, and design of headstones to ensure uniform appearance throughout the grounds.
2. Budget
Headstones are available in a variety of price based upon the material dimensions, size, and style. Granite headstones tend to be cheaper than marble however bronze plaques or custom designs could be more expensive. It's important to set a budget before shopping for headstones in order to make sure that you choose an option which meets your financial and emotional requirements.
3. Maintenance
Consider how much maintenance the headstone needs over time. Some materials, like bronze and granite need less maintenance. While others, such as limestone or marble, might require periodic cleansing or sealing to prevent damage.
4. Personalization
Find out what might best represent your loved one. Consider elements that reflect the individual's character, interests or religion. This will ensure that the headstone can be used as a permanent and meaningful memorial.
Conclusion
Selecting a headstone can be a highly personal decision that is a reflection of the life and legacy of your loved one. With a variety of styles, materials choices, engraving options, and options available, it's crucial to be patient and pick something that feels right. It doesn't matter if you select simple, unpretentious design or a more intricate custom-designed memorial, your headstone will serve as an eternal testament to the life and dedication of the person who it honors.