How to Choose the Right Headstone, Memorial or Gravestone

Choosing the right headstone, memorial or gravestone is a delicate and sensitive matter, which must be carefully considered. Representing the life and character of the deceased through engravings and images allows friends and family to create a lasting and striking impact. Whilst losing loved ones is never easy, their legacy can live on. Here are some tips on how to choose the right headstone, memorial or gravestone and some all-important factors to think about. 

Consider Stone Type and Colour

One of the first factors to consider in finding the right headstone, memorial or gravestone is what stone type and colour to choose. From graphite to marble there are an array of rock forms available, most of which come in a variation of shades. Whilst most cemeteries tend to allow any kind of natural stone, churchyards have stricter limitations and some types of rock are not permitted. Those unsure of which rock forms they are able to use should consult with their stonemason to seek advice. 

Think about Size

Deciding upon an appropriate memorial, headstone or gravestone size is an important aspect of the decision process. Often there is a maximum size allowed but this is highly dependent upon the place of burial or erection. Whilst memorials are often larger, as many are crafted in respect for groups of people such as soldiers or royal families, all three are available in a range of sizes. The size of the memorial, headstone or gravestone can also represent the physical age of the deceased, but again, this is entirely dependent on the wishes of those closest.

Choose Quotations

Quotations are often prominent on memorials, headstones and gravestones, and are a great way to represent the character, life and spirit of those who have passed away. Sayings that had meaning and importance can be passed on through generations, and ultimately can create a lasting legacy. From choosing the right colour to the correct font, there are many things to think about when deciding upon quotations. Every aspect is equally as important, and will create a strong impression on those passing by, as well as family and friends.

Decide upon Photo-plaques and Ornamentations

Photo-plaques are essentially an image of a loved one that can be set onto their gravestone, headstone or memorial, providing that the photo is of a high quality. Backgrounds can be taken out of the photo, depending on the family’s desires and images will be made to be durable and hard-wearing, ensuring that they last for decades to come. A great visual reminder of those who have passed away, photo-plaques are becoming an increasingly popular option when it comes to choosing the layout of gravestones, headstones and memorials.

Ornamentations are likewise a superb visual reminder, often symbolic of religion, hobbies, or personality that is added to the plaque. From the serious symbol of a cross to a fun image of a motorbike, there are a range of inventive and original ornamentations that family and friends may choose to include in order to make the gravestone, memorial or headstone truly unique.

Conclusion

Choosing the right gravestone, headstone or memorial includes thinking about a variety of aspects. From considering whether or not to include photo-plaques and ornamentations to thinking about the stone colour and size, there are many elements to consider during this process. Those unsure of what to include should consult with their stonemason to ensure that they are fully content in their final decisions.

Article written by memorial headstones mason firm, Memorials of Distinction.

By Tom Reynolds

Tom Reynolds works in the marketing department of Memorials of Distinction - a family run stonemasons and sculptors business based in the UK. Tom has a wealth of experience in funeral planning.

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Gravestone Sayings for a Man, Woman, or Child

Gravestones are different from one another in terms of style, design, and material. However, what makes them the most unique are the gravestone sayings. The gravestone inscription adds a very special touch to the monument and makes the final resting place of your loved one special. The saying is a final farewell and permanent memorial to the deceased person.

There are two choices when it comes to selecting a gravestone for a loved one’s grave. First, it could be left bare, or inscribed simply with their name and date of birth/date of death. Second, it could be personalized with imagery and gravestone sayings. Often people prefer to add a personal message to the gravestone as a permanent tribute to their loved one.

May he rest in peace.
He was beloved in life.
A loving father, tender and kind, what a beautiful memory you left behind.
His joy was in serving others.
His friendship was an inspiration, his love a blessing.
His mission on earth fulfilled.
We loved him a lot but God loved him more.
No man is indispensable but some are irreplaceable.
He had a kindly word for each and died beloved by all.
To know him was to love him.
He lives with us in memory and will for evermore.
God took him home, it was his will, but in our hearts he liveth still.
Resting with those he loved.
The world’s loss was heaven’s gain when God took you home.
A loving husband and father.

May she rest in peace for eternity.
Resting with those she loved.
She served and kept the faith.
A mother’s love grows by giving.
Her friendship was an inspiration, her love a blessing.
She loved people and laughter.
She had a kindly word for each and she died beloved by all.
She would rather give than receive.
God called her from among us to a home of eternal rest.
She will always be with us…in our hearts, in our memories, in our lives.
To know her was to love her.
Her memory is enshrined in our hearts.
The heart of a mother is a deep abyss at the bottom of which you will always find forgiveness.
She lives with us in memory and will for evermore.
She gave so much and demanded so little.

May he (or she) rest in peace for eternity.
Remembering a tiny angel.
No jewel is as perfect as the innocence of childhood.
So small, so sweet, so soon.
God’s garden has need of little flowers.
Our littlest angel who went back to Heaven.
Called by one who loves him dearly.
Let thy child rest in hope and rise in glory.
Even the tiniest child leaves behind love that lasts forever.
Those that God loves do not live long.
Sleep, my little one, sleep. (Harrington)
Children are the keys of paradise. (R.H. Stoddard)
The child is the father of the man. (Wordsworth)
Children are an heritage of the Lord. (Psalms 127: 3)
Awaiting the touch of a little hand, and the smile of a little face. (E. Field)

Gravestone sayings could be written by the deceased person while he or she was still alive, but typically they are written by someone close to him or her, or a famous author. Whichever you choose, the purpose of the saying is to reflect on the life of the person, or express your feelings over their loss.

Select one of the gravestone sayings listed above for your loved one’s monument. If you are having a hard time picking, or cannot find a saying that you like, look at the other articles with more examples listed below.

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