When you’re deciding on a stone monument to honor a loved one, it’s helpful to know the techniques that can be used to produce different visual effects. Below are several types of carving styles that can be used to create a durable and unique grave marker.

4 Carving Techniques for Stone Monuments

1. Etching

Etching is typically performed on dark, natural stones such as black granite, basalt, or marble with a laser or diamond-tipped tools. Modern etching can create realistic portraits and intricate designs and lettering—the end results look almost like a photograph. The only downside to etching is that it typically doesn’t last as long as engraving and other carving options, especially when it’s exposed to the elements.

2. Shaped Carving

While labor-intensive, shaped carving creates stunning works of art with full dimension and depth. The artist uses sand-blasting tools to reshape stone into objects like leaves and flowers that are three-dimensional. Praying hands are also popular carvings for funeral monuments.

3. Flat Carving

Relief or flat carving creates a raised sculpture effect on the stone by chiseling away the background. There are different types of relief techniques, including bas-relief, high-relief, and mid-relief, which refers to how deep the stone is undercut.

4. Fonts & Letter Engraving

Similar to laser etching, laser engraving allows the stoneworker to create many different styles of lettering and font inscriptions. However, engraved designs are more durable than etchings, and they’re imprinted in the stone more deeply. The departed’s name, birthday, and date of passing are often engraved on a monument or headstone. Marble, granite and travertine are popular choices for this technique.

A stone monument will honor your loved one and provide a beautiful, custom tribute to their life. The skilled craftspeople at  McGee Monument in Morrilton, AR, create stunning and affordable headstones, bronze markers, and tombstones. In business since 1901, McGee Monument has six locations in Arkansas, including a facility in Conway, Russellville, Clinton, Atkins, Dardanelle, and Danville. To request a quote, call (800) 750-0177 or visit the website for more information about their services.