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Selecting a headstone for someone who has recently passed away can be an overwhelming experience, but it also plays an important role in the grieving process. This will serve as a way to memorialize and honor your loved one’s life for years to come, so it’s a decision that deserves careful thought and consideration. However, having so many options available can make it difficult to know where to start. Here are some of the key factors to consider to help you arrive at the right choice.

What to Consider for the Perfect Headstone

1. Cemetery Regulations

Cemeteries often have rules regarding the size, type, color, and material of gravestones. You may also be required to have certain paperwork before installation. Contact the cemetery to find out the specifications you must comply with before making any decisions.

2. Style

There are generally three styles from which to choose. The most common is upright, which is a flat tablet that stands up on a base. Flat headstones are another traditional option, which are installed into the ground. Kerbed headstones are monuments that lie flat on the ground and line the length of the grave.

3. Materials 

headstonesGravestones can be made from a variety of materials, and each has advantages and disadvantages. You’ll want to compare how well they hold up against the elements and what kind of maintenance they require.

Granite tends to be the most popular material due to its affordability, durability, and wide array of color choices. Marble and limestone are other options to consider, but they both tend to weather easily. Bronze is strong and needs little upkeep but is more expensive. 

4. Finishes 

The finish also contributes to a material’s appearance and durability. A polished finish is smooth and shiny all over. A partially polished finish is smooth and shiny in text and image areas, and the rest is sanded, rubbed, blasted, or sawn. A honed finish is smooth but not reflective, and a pitched finish leaves the stone rough and natural with an aged look.

5. Inscriptions

The message you put on the gravestone is the biggest decision you’ll have to make. This should be a personal reflection on the life of your loved one. Basic text usually includes the person’s name, date of birth, and date of death. You may also have a religious passage, poetry, or an epitaph etched into the stone.

 

If you’re looking for a quality-made headstone to commemorate your loved one’s memory, turn to Hawaii Art Stone in Honolulu. They provide valuable guidance through the design process, and their custom stonework allows for a high level of personalization and craftsmanship. Call (808) 744-3162 to set up a consultation, or visit them online for more information on the products they offer.

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