Different Styles For Gravestones

By Olivia Banks


When an individual chooses to be buried instead of cremated, it is customary for their final resting place to be marked by a special plaque or monument. This is a way for one to be immortalized upon the Earth, leaving behind their name, dates and even special words of wisdom for all time. Graves Headstones are available in several styles, each with endless variations.

Since the earliest days of man, burial sites have been marked by stones. The practice began with piling plain rocks together but as civilizations advanced, people started to decorate the markers by drawing or carving meaningful symbols, words, numbers or pictures on them. As time passed, these gravestones became a way to tell visitors to the site about the person who is buried there.

From their position at the grave's head, the markers proclaim the name of the occupant, usually along with their date of birth as well as date that they died. There are several options from which to choose ranging from slabs of rock or metal that are closer to the ground for a lower profile to the many styles of uprights which come in many shapes and sizes. Crosses, tablets and pedestals holding urns or statues are very common designs.

In cemeteries worldwide, the most popular style is an upright granite tablet that is either free standing or perched atop a horizontal base. These are shaped as plain rectangles, have tops that are scrolled or domed, or they are cut into the shape of a religious or organizational symbol. It is common for couples or families interred in the same plot to share a single marker containing each of their information.

Some markers, such as the flush slabs and plaques, take on a more unobtrusive profile and make for easier maintenance. Bevels are a variation on this style, being thicker and elevating the rear edge a few inches higher than the front. Slanted forms take this a step further by making the readable surface lean at 45 degrees.

The Victorian era tombstones found in some of the oldest graveyards were the inspiration for the modern Gothic tablet style. These borrow the elaborate scrolling lines, ornate arches and detailed angles that were indicative of that period's architectural designs used in churches. They have a classic and interesting beauty.

Creating impressive silhouettes and resembling sleek towers, obelisks are another popular design. Inspired by structures from ancient Egyptian times, these formations are often topped with pyramids, stars, angels or eagles. There are so many grave headstones options available, making it possible to create a beautiful monument to fit most any budget.




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