When it comes to honoring the memory of a loved one, choosing the right type of headstone or cemetery monument is a deeply personal decision. A headstone is far more than a grave marker, it’s a lasting tribute that tells a story of love, life, and legacy.
At Forever in Stone, we know how important it is to select something that truly reflects your loved one’s spirit. Among the most common styles are upright headstones, flat grave markers, and slant memorials. Each has its own style, strengths, and symbolism. Let’s walk through each to help you find the one that feels right.
1. Upright Monuments
What Are Upright Headstones?
Upright grave markers are the most traditional and recognizable style of memorial monuments. They typically consist of two parts: the tablet (the vertical portion that displays the engraving) and the base (which supports it). These monuments stand tall and dignified, often used to make a strong, visible statement in the cemetery.
Key Features:
- Stand between 20 to 48 inches high
- Commonly made of granite or marble
- Offer plenty of space for custom engravings, personal messages, and symbolic artwork
Why Choose Upright Headstones:
- Visibility: Easy to locate from a distance
- Timeless design: A classic and elegant choice
- Highly customizable: Room for photos, emblems, religious symbols, or long inscriptions
2. Flat Monuments
What Are Flat Headstones?
Also called grass markers or flush markers, these lie level with the ground or slightly raised. With their clean, minimalist design, flat granite headstones are often chosen for their subtle beauty and ease of care.
Key Features:
- Typically 3–4 inches thick
- Made from granite, bronze, or a mix of both
- Sleek and low-profile, blending in with the landscape
Why Choose Flat Grave Markers:
- Affordable: Generally the most cost-effective option
- Low maintenance: Easy for families and cemetery groundskeepers to maintain
- Modern & minimal: Ideal for a modest, simple tribute
3. Slant Monuments
What Are Slant Headstones?
Slant memorials are somewhere between upright and flat designs. They sit above ground, but with a slanted front face that angles upward. This makes the engraving more legible than on flat markers, while keeping a relatively compact footprint.
Key Features:
- Typically 16 to 18 inches tall in the back, tapering forward
- Available with or without a separate base
- Can stand alone or be paired with other memorial pieces
Why Choose Slant Markers:
- Easy to read from a standing position
- Space-saving design without sacrificing elegance
- Customizable yet more subtle than upright monuments
What to Consider When Choosing a Headstone
When selecting a cemetery headstone, think about more than just appearance. Here are a few important factors:
- Cemetery Regulations: Each cemetery has its own rules regarding size, material, and monument type.
- Budget: Headstones vary widely in cost based on material, size, and customizations.
- Location: The cemetery’s terrain and layout might affect which monument type fits best.
- Personalization: Think about how much space you’ll need for names, dates, quotes, or religious artwork.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose the graceful height of an upright monument, the clean simplicity of a flat marker, or the versatile look of a slant headstone, what matters most is the love behind it.
At Forever in Stone, we’re here to walk with you, offering compassionate guidance, professional craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of what this moment means. Let us help you create a custom headstone that speaks not just to the life they lived, but the legacy they leave behind.
For a free consultation on designing a custom grave monument, call us at 209-480-9444.
Let Forever in Stone, Inc. create a timeless tribute that preserves your loved one’s legacy.