Headstone designs, inscriptions and wording
Choosing a headstone means decisions about type, material, design and (often the hardest part) the wording. Here's how each works.
Types of headstone
The main forms are the lawn plaque (flush with the ground), the sloper (an angled stone), the upright monument, the ledger (a full slab over the grave), and larger full monuments and family estates. Which are allowed depends on the cemetery section. Many lawn sections only permit plaques.
Materials
Granite is the most common choice, hard-wearing and available in many colours. Marble is traditional and elegant but softer and weathers more. Sandstone features in heritage and older-section work. Material is the single biggest influence on both look and cost.
Inscriptions and wording
At a minimum an inscription carries the name and dates; most add an epitaph or verse. Lettering is typically priced by the letter or line, with gilding (gold leaf) an extra. Wording often follows the family's tradition: a scripture verse, Hebrew opening and closing on a Jewish matzevah, Greek or Arabic script, or something wholly personal.
Names can be added later, too: an additional inscription when another family member is interred.
Photographs and extras
Ceramic photographs are common in many communities, particularly Greek, Italian and Eastern European traditions. Other additions include kerbing around the grave, vases, and decorative elements. Each adds to the cost.
Cultural conventions
Every community has its own conventions: the matzevah and Hebrew inscriptions of Jewish graves, the three-bar cross and candili of Orthodox monuments, the crosses and religious imagery of Catholic memorials, the simplicity of Muslim graves. Each community page on CemeteryWise sets these out.
Frequently asked
What's the most durable headstone material?
Granite. It's hard-wearing and resists weathering better than marble or sandstone, which is why it's the most common choice.
How is lettering priced?
Usually by the letter or by the line, with gilding (gold leaf) charged as an extra.
Can I use another language on the headstone?
Yes. Hebrew, Greek, Arabic, Chinese and others are common, following the family's tradition.