Headstones play an important role in memorializing an individual’s life. They’re meant to weather the elements for decades and represent some of the most important aspects of a person, which is why their creation demands the utmost level of precision and expertise. To understand how these memorials are made, explore the fabrication process below.

A Guide to Headstone Creation

Sourcing Materials

Today, most headstones are made from granite, due to its lasting quality and accessibility. Many granite quarries are found throughout the U.S. Quarry workers use a pneumatic drill or water jet piercing to cut the block away from the quarry, using paper-wrapped blasting charges to create a clean break.

Design

Nowadays, memorials can be personalized in a number of ways. Individuals can either pre-plan their own design, or surviving family members may make selections based on their loved one’s wishes. Either way, the stone can encompass personal information, epitaphs with meaningful quotes, and even images. The size, shape, and color of the stone can also be customized. Granite is available in pink, white, and shades of gray.

Manufacturing

After granite blocks are transported away from the quarry, they’ll arrive at the manufacturing house where they’ll be cut into smaller slabs using a diamond saw. These slabs are then pressed to create a smooth finish using rotating heads affixed with diamond grit. Next the stone is cut and designed into the desired shape. This, too, is completed with a diamond saw.

The surface of the stone is polished once again, and finally, it is time for the engraving process. Typically, fabricators use sandblasting to apply designs and lettering. This employs the use of stencils and carbon-backed layouts to facilitate the design transfer. The fabricator will then cut out the design features so they can be sandblasted; an abrasive is applied under high pressure to reveal the design. Any stencil remnants will be removed, and the stone will be polished again before inspection and installation at the gravesite.  

As trusted memorial fabricators in Genesee County, NY, Derrick Monument Company Inc approaches each headstone project with a commitment to quality and accuracy. They’re committed to honoring the lives and wishes of the deceased with respect and precision. Browse through their gallery of completed projects online, or call (5858) 768-8470 to speak with a team member.