How To Choose A Headstone

When a loved one passes away, the job of choosing a headstone is left to you. But how do you make the right choice? Take a look at these tips.

Check With The Cemetary About Headstone Size Limitations

Some cemeteries limit the size of the headstones that you can place on a grave. It’s a good idea, therefore, to check ahead of time to see what the rules are, especially if you're planning on buying a large headstone.

Select An Appropriate Material

Headstones come in a variety of materials, each with varying aesthetics and longevity. Granite headstones are one of the longest-lasting materials and come in a variety of finishes. Many churchyards will only permit granite headstones.

Marble is another option. Many churchyards do not allow marble because it is a fragile stone.

Limestone is another options: it’ll discolour over time, giving it a weathered appearance.

Know Your Budget

Headstones occupy a variety of price points depending on size, material, and inscriptions. Expect to pay more for rarer materials and larger sizes.

Select A Headstone Finish

Headstones come in a variety of finishes which affect their appearance and longevity. Some cemeteries prefer highly polishes headstone finishes. These finishes look shiny and have higher reflectivity.

Honed finishes give tombstones depth.

A pitched finish gives headstones a rustic look.

Select Images And Fonts

Most headstone makers offer a range of typefaces (fonts) from which you can choose. These include “Garamond,” “Park Avenue” and “Old English.” You can also have gravestones etches with images using special computer etching tools.