A memorial monument will last for decades, if not hundreds of years. It is often seen as a tribute of love and respect for the deceased. The material you choose for the monument can be a thoughtful touch and can potentially last for generations. The following materials are the best choices for a memorial monument.

Top Materials for Grave Monuments

1. Marble

Marble is a traditional monument material and comes in a range of colors, including pink, white, gray, and black. Marble can be carved into intricate designs, but inscriptions are susceptible to pollutants like acid rain, which dissolve lettering and detail over time. 

2. Sandstone, Slate, & Fieldstone

These stones have been used as grave monuments for centuries. Of the three, fieldstone has been used the longest in the United States and is the most durable, though it does not come in multiple colors. These stones carve easily, but sandstone and slate erode over time, and inscriptions may eventually be lost.

3. Granite

Granite is a beautiful, durable, and affordable stone. It can be easily carved and comes in an array of colors, like mahogany, green, blue, white, and black. Granite is also resistant to cracking or chipping in extreme weather.

4. Bronze

Bronze is versatile, elegant, and is castable into complex and detailed shapes. It’s weather-resistant and durable, easily maintained, and will not erode. True bronze is a tin and copper alloy and tends to be more expensive than granite or marble. Sandcast zinc, also known as white bronze, was popular as a marker material in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. White bronze, however, grows brittle over time and needs an internal structure to prevent breakage.

5. Stainless Steel

Steel is a modern monument trend. This is a strong and versatile material that can incorporate complex designs, inscriptions, and mirror finishes. Monuments made with steel last long and may appeal to those who want to add intricate images or photographic elements.

The material you choose for a loved one’s monument is determined by the type of marker, complexity of design, and budget. McGee Monument in Morrilton, AR, offers customized, unique grave monuments to the communities of Morrilton, Conway, and Russellville. Choose from cremation urns, benches, mausoleums, tombstones, markers, and inscribed pavers in any kind of stone or bronze. This establishment has been family owned and operated since 1901. Call (800) 750-0177 to discuss marker designs or visit the website for examples of their work.