If you’ve ever seen custom memorials such as tombstones or mausoleums with designs etched into them, you might have thought that it was simply an artistic expression for honoring a loved one. In reality, many of these designs are symbolic and are intended to offer insight into a person’s values, accomplishments, or traits. The team from Quincy Monuments in Quincy, MA, explains the meaning behind many of the common types of flowers found on grave markers.

What Does Each Type of Flower Represent On Custom Memorials?

What Do Roses Represent?

Wild roses signify true love and devotion, while traditional roses symbolize Messianic hope and the nativity. The mystic rose represents The Mother, and cultivated roses are linked to Venus, the goddess of Love.

What About Lilies?

If you spot a calla lily flower, it may have been chosen by the deceased’s spouse, as this flower represents marriage. The Madonna lily is chosen to illustrate purity and heavenly bliss, as is the Easter lily. Both traditional lilies and the lily of the valley are common symbols that represent the Virgin Mary and may be chosen for individuals whose values included purity and innocence.

Do Any Flowers Represent Beauty?

While flowers are regarded as one of the most traditional symbols of beauty, the clematis flower is typically incorporated into custom memorials to represent mental beauty. Daffodils also represent beauty, while the lotus is specific to feminine beauty.

Which Flower Would Be Right For a Mother?

Evening primrose is an excellent choice to honor a beloved mother because it represents lasting love and memory. The climbing rose illustrates love and devotion to the family, while hollyhock embodies fruitfulness and nature. Honeysuckle represents devotion and affection, and iris indicates protection, so any of these blooms would be fitting choices.

What Are Some Other Flowers With Special Meaning?

The tulip is a symbol of eternal life, as is the dogwood flower. Laurel flowers mark distinction and success, while morning glories are linked to resurrection as well as farewell. Both pansies and poppy flowers are suitable for almost anyone who has passed on, as they represent remembrance and restful sleep, respectively.

Etchings are a visually appealing and unique way to honor someone dear to you. If you’re interested in learning more about options for custom memorials, call the passionate, talented team at Quincy Memorials at (617) 471-0250. You can also read more about selecting a memorial on their website.