Buying a Headstone

It's not something anyone looks forward to, and can be a very difficult process for most, sometimes it may well be the first time you've had to. However, it's often difficult because most people do not know the right questions. Below, I've put together notes on how to buy a headstone. I hope you find it helpful.


First off choosing an experienced memorial mason who has wide knowledge and expertise of the industry is essential. In an industry where the average consumer does not know the difference between types of granites, color, sizes, polishes, carvings etc and their related costs, it's important to speak to someone with extensive experience. Whether you are looking for a simple or extravagant design, you want to have someone to help guide you through the process. Someone who can help you incorporate your ideas to make your headstone or memorial a thing of beauty that shows personality and tells a story.

I offer all of the above to you, and rest assured, you'll be in safe hands.

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Things to consider when designing your memorial

First, I recommend you drive around cemeteries and get some ideas of things you like or things you don’t. Whilst a brochure or a showroom can point you in the right direction, actually visiting a cemetery or churchyard will always be of help, as you’ll see a much bigger selection and have a sense of what will or won’t work at the chosen spot.

Below is a list of things to consider, whether you are buying a headstone for pre-need or after a death.

Size

Many cemeteries have maximum heights and widths of headstones for particular sections of their cemeteries. Even the thickness of the stone, and the base its set on, are sometimes regulated. I will always check with due diligence what is and isn't allowed before any order is placed.

Style/Shape

(Headstones only) Just about any shape you can dream up can be made into a monument. Beyond the typical square or rectangular shape, many monument dealers offer stones that are shaped like books, teardrops, hearts, free standing crosses, lighthouses, clovers etc. The ideas are endless. Keep in mind that it may cost a little extra for a more extravagant shape because of the number of “cuts” the manufacturer must make. I'll always make sure any chosen shape would meet the relevant requirements and regulations.

Style/Shape

(Headstones only) Just about any shape you can dream up can be made into a monument. Beyond the typical square or rectangular shape, many monument dealers offer stones that are shaped like books, teardrops, hearts, free standing crosses, lighthouses, clovers etc. The ideas are endless. Keep in mind that it may cost a little extra for a more extravagant shape because of the number of “cuts” the manufacturer must make. I'll always make sure any chosen shape would meet the relevant requirements and regulations.

Color

Believe it or not, where a piece of granite comes from in the world often impacts it's colour and hue. Because of it’s beauty and durability, the most popular granite is the colour black from India. Different colors often result in different pricing, and certain colours lend themselves better than others for etchings. Granite is by far the most popular choice nowadays and is offered in a multitude of colours.

The inscription.

Probably the most important part.

Finding the words for a headstone inscription that appropriately commemorates a loved one can be an incredibly difficult task. It can be challenging to capture the essence of a person in a short selection of words but a memorial marks the place that loved ones will visit for years to come, so it is important to get it right.

When making the decision of what to write on a headstone, the most important thing to keep in mind is your departed loved one and what is right for them.

A memorial is a final tribute to that person, and every decision should be made with them in mind. There are many different options available and it can seem overwhelming but we’re on hand to offer advice through this difficult process.

The most common choice of memorial inscription is an epitaph, which is a simple statement that honours the deceased. Epitaphs are sensitive, personal ways to memorialise a passed loved one and are often short and concise. These are brief descriptions of the person, for example ‘Devoted Husband and Father’ or ‘A Friend to All’. While an epitaph is a common choice for a gravestone inscription, it is not a required addition.

Options

There are many other options for headstone wording, including religious extracts, poetry, song lyrics and famous quotes. Many people find solace in religious text, or find a poem perfectly encapsulates the personality of the departed. The choice entirely depends on the person you are honouring and finding the right way to meaningfully commemorate them. It is, however, important to remember that a headstone will stand for years, which should be considered when choosing any writing for an inscription.

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Less is more

A shorter memorial inscription will have more of an impact than a longer one. People often have a lot that they want to include on a loved one’s headstone, but it is important to ask yourself whether it is all necessary. For example, rather than writing out entire birth and death dates, many people choose to just include the years. Keeping the message short and simple will give the memorial a stronger feel.

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Be unique

Classic phrases such as ‘in loving memory’ have become very common, but we often advise thinking about more unique wording for a memorial.
There are endless possibilities for a memorial and finding the right words can seem daunting, but doing some research into different options can help you find the perfect choice.

Spend some extra time thinking about your own words that have a more personal meaning.

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Take your time

Take plenty of time to think through what you want and what is most appropriate. There is no rush to decide on an inscription, and it is often better to wait for some time after the passing of a loved one to make that important decision.

It can be surprisingly easy to overlook important details during the stress surrounding death, so we will always recommend holding off on that final decision.

Before anything is ' Set In Stone ' you'll see a proof of how it will look, and only once approved will it be inscribed onto the memorial.