Customization Options?

Customization Options When Designing a Headstone: Making a Personal Tribute Last Forever

Designing a headstone is a deeply personal decision, one that reflects the life, values, and legacy of a loved one. While the process of selecting a memorial can be emotional, it also provides an opportunity to create a lasting tribute that celebrates a person’s individuality. From choosing the material and shape to adding inscriptions and decorative elements, the customization options for a headstone are vast and varied. In this blog post, we’ll explore the many ways you can personalize a headstone to ensure it perfectly honors the memory of your loved one.

1. Choosing the Material: Granite, Marble, and More

The first and most important customization decision is selecting the material for the headstone. The right material not only impacts the overall look but also affects the durability and longevity of the memorial. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Granite: By far the most common and durable material, granite is resistant to weathering and comes in a variety of colors and textures. It’s perfect for detailed engravings and can be polished to a high sheen or left with a more natural finish.
• Marble: Known for its elegance and timeless beauty, marble is softer than granite and is often used for more traditional designs. It has a classic white or creamy appearance, though it may weather over time, resulting in a more antique, patinated look.
• Bronze: Some headstones feature bronze plaques or elements, which provide a distinct, luxurious appearance. Bronze is a pricier alternative to granite.  Something to keep in mind is that all bronze will oxidize and turn green at some point. High quality paints and clear coats are used to prevent oxidation, but no paint lasts forever.  Bronze will never rust away like steel does, it will simply turn green over time as oxidation takes place. Bronze must be mounted to a granite base in most applications. (Parker Monuments is a reputable supplier of bronze memorials, please reach out with any questions.)  

Choosing the right material is the first step in crafting a headstone that reflects your loved one’s personality and stands the test of time.

2. Shape and Size: Tailoring the Design to Your Wishes

Headstones come in a variety of shapes, from the traditional upright monument to more modern and unique designs. Some of the most popular shapes include:

• Traditional Upright Monuments: These are the most common type of headstone and can be customized with different sizes, shapes, and engravings. The upright design offers ample space for inscriptions and artwork.
• Flat Markers: These are set level with the ground and are often used for a more minimalist approach. While less visually prominent, they can still be customized with intricate designs and text.
• Bevel Markers: Bevel markers are also called "pillow markers" by some.  The face of the marker has a slight bevel to it which allows for a more comfortable reading angle in most applications.  These should be installed raised out of the ground a bit.
• Slant Monuments: These are a variation of the upright monument but with a slight angle to the face of the stone. These have a much more steep angle than a bevel marker.
• Bench Monuments: A headstone that doubles as a bench can be a unique and functional tribute. These headstones allow for seating and provide a space for reflection.
• Ledgers: Ledgers are designed to cover most of the grave with a single piece of granite.  They can be lettered and serve as the headstone, or can be used as a foundation for an upright headstone.  
• Mausoleums: Allows for an above-ground burial.  Expert installation required.  Contact Parker Monuments with any questions.  
• Custom Shapes: For those looking for something truly unique, many memorials can be shaped to reflect the personality or hobbies of the deceased. For example, headstones may be shaped like a book, a heart, or even something representative of the deceased’s life, such as a guitar for a musician.

Working with a designer, you can decide on the shape and size that best captures the essence of your loved one while also complying with any cemetery regulations.

3. Inscriptions: Words That Tell a Story

The inscription on a headstone is often the most personal and meaningful part of the memorial. It’s an opportunity to include the person's name, birth and death dates, and perhaps a meaningful quote, epitaph, or verse that reflects their life or legacy. Common inscription options include:

• Basic Information: Name, birth and death dates, and a brief phrase such as "Beloved Father" or "Cherished Friend."
• Epitaphs: Many people choose to add an epitaph—a short phrase or quotation that summarizes the person's life, character, or beliefs. These can be religious, poetic, or personal.
• Religious Symbols or Quotes: For those who were religious, symbols such as crosses, angels, or religious verses are common. For example, "Rest in Peace" or "In God’s Care" are popular phrases for Christian memorials.
• Personal Messages: Some families may choose a more personal message or phrase, such as a line from a favorite song, poem, or book that had meaning for the deceased.
• Font Styles: The type of font used for the inscription can add a significant personal touch. Some people prefer elegant, script-like fonts, while others opt for bold, simple lettering. The choice of font can set the tone of the memorial, whether it’s formal, classic, or modern.

The inscription should reflect the personality and beliefs of the person, creating a lasting message for future generations to read and remember.

4. Carvings: Symbols and Artwork - Adding Visual Significance

In addition to text, headstones can feature decorative symbols and artwork that add depth and meaning to the memorial. These elements can make a headstone more personal and unique. Here are some popular options:

• Religious Symbols: Crosses, angels, and other religious images are often engraved or etched on headstones to reflect the deceased’s faith. For example, a Christian cross, Star of David, or Islamic crescent moon might be included.
• Floral Patterns: Roses, lilies, or other flowers can be engraved to symbolize beauty, love, or remembrance. Floral motifs are often used for women, but they can be applied to anyone’s memorial as a universal symbol of love and life.
• Military Insignia: If the deceased served in the military, a military emblem such as a flag, eagle, or branch insignia may be added to the headstone to honor their service.
• Nature and Hobbies: Personalized symbols reflecting a person’s hobbies or passions—such as musical notes, sports equipment, or animals—can be added to capture the essence of their life. For example, a fisherman may have a fish or fishing rod on their memorial, while an artist may have a paintbrush or palette.
• Portraits: In some cases, families choose to have a portrait of the deceased etched into the stone. This option adds a highly personal touch and can be done in a realistic or artistic style.

These decorative elements give the headstone a deeper layer of meaning, allowing future generations to understand the life and passions of the person memorialized.  (Please contact Parker Monuments for inquiries of carving designs.  We have a large catalog, and if we don't have it already, we can create it!)

5. Additional Features: Practical and Decorative Elements

There are other customization options that can enhance the design and function of a headstone, such as:

• Vases and Flower Holders: Many headstones come with attached vases or holders for flowers, making it easier to place fresh flowers at the grave site. These can be built directly into the base of the monument or added as separate pieces.
• QR Codes: For those who want to share more information about the deceased’s life, a QR code can be attached to the headstone. When scanned, the code can link to a website, online memorial, or even a video that tells the story of the person’s life.  *Parker Monuments does not recommend the permanent engraving of a QR code into granite. We recommend an easily replaceable attachment method in case any problems occur with the QR code or website domain in the future.*
• Porcelain Portraits: A great visual personal touch to a headstone.  

These additional features can make a memorial more functional, visually striking, and easier to maintain.

Conclusion

Customizing a headstone is an important way to honor a loved one’s life and legacy. Whether you’re choosing the material, shape, inscription, or additional decorative elements, the process allows you to create a personal tribute that truly reflects the individual’s character, passions, and beliefs. By taking the time to consider these various options, you can design a headstone that will serve as a lasting, meaningful tribute for generations to come.