Creating a headstone for a loved one is one of the most important aspects of end-of-life planning. This feature will symbolize their life long after the memorial service has ended, which is why it’s important to put some careful consideration into the decisions you make. While this process is likely unfamiliar to you, using the guidance below will help you through each step. 

A Guide to What to Consider During the Headstone Creation Process

Stone Type

There are many materials available for your loved one’s headstone. Marble, bronze, limestone, sandstone, iron, slate, and granite are a few of the most common options. Some last longer than others, but oftentimes, longevity corresponds with the price. Granite tends to be the most common selection, as it is known for its beauty and durability while bronze is also popular. Marble, while malleable enough for carving intricate designs, can become illegible over the years and may require more maintenance.

Symbols & Text

After you’ve settled on a material, the next step is to determine the overall look of the headstone. You can choose among a broad range of shapes and sizes, but be sure to check the cemetery rules first. Upright, bevel, flat, and pillar headstones are some of the most common types, but some cemeteries enforce rules for uniformity.

Finally, decide what you’d like to feature on your loved one’s stone. While their name and birth and death dates are common, you can take personalize it by including a favorite quote, verse, or passage. Many people also like to include descriptors, such as “loving mother, sister,” and so forth. You can also incorporate symbols, either religious or secular, as well as etched images.

For more than a century, the detail-oriented team from Derrick Monument Company Inc. has been creating beautiful headstones and monuments for the Genesee County, NY, community. With a commitment to top-quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship, they ensure each stone they produce appropriately honors the life of the departed. Explore their photo gallery online, or call (585) 768-8470 to speak with a team member.