If you’re looking for the perfect headstone to commemorate a loved one, choosing a stone that will last is important. While several different types of headstones are available, granite and marble are the two most popular choices for memorials.
Both materials can withstand laser etching, which allows customers to customize their headstones with designs and high-contrast lettering. However, granite has a number of advantages over marble that make it the better choice for most families.
Durability
When it comes to choosing a headstone or monument, you have to consider what kind of material it will be made from. It is a decision that will affect how it looks and how it will hold up over time.
Granite and marble are two materials that you can choose for your memorial. Both can be carved into beautiful shapes, and both come in a variety of colors.
Both granite and marble are incredibly durable. They can withstand extreme cold, rain, wind, and climate fluctuations.
However, it is important to note that both materials are susceptible to erosion and weathering from chemicals and environmental factors. If you choose a headstone that will be placed outdoors, it is especially important to select a strong material to ensure that your loved one’s inscription stays legible for years.
In this regard, granite is a stronger stone than marble. This is because it forms when magma cools deep down in the earth’s crust. This pressure and heat then cause the molecules to bond together, forming a nearly indestructible rock.
Aside from its durability, granite is also a very versatile stone that can be carved, engraved, and etched into virtually any design. This means that your loved one’s memorial will be truly unique and bespoke.
For example, it can be carved into different geometrical and abstract shapes to stand out. This can give your inscription a more unique look and help you remember your loved one for generations.
Moreover, often, the lettering on a granite monument will still be legible even after many years. This is because the high-contrast laser etching that is often used to write letters and numbers will not fade or become illegible over time.
Another benefit of a granite memorial is that it is incredibly easy to clean and maintain. Occasional cleaning with water and a soft cloth can keep it looking its best.
Because of this, it is a very popular choice for headstones and grave markers because it will last for decades to come and preserve the inscription for many years to come. Whether you decide to go with a traditional black granite or a more modern white or light grey option, your loved one will be remembered in the most beautiful way possible.
Aesthetics
When it comes to choosing the perfect headstone for a loved one, there are many things to consider. Among these are size, shape, engravings, and the material itself. The most common choices are granite and marble, but other options are limestone, bronze, and stainless steel.
Both granite and marble are natural stones that have been mined from quarries and then processed into a variety of different designs. They can be cut and polished to look very elegant, but they also come in a range of colors and finishes that are perfect for adding custom engravings or creating a unique design.
Granite is a hard and granular stone that has been used as a construction stone for centuries. It comes in various colors, ranging from black to grey, and is known for its beautiful and distinctive appearance.
It’s not as prone to scratching as other types of stone, and its strong composition allows for intricately carved designs that will stand the test of time. It can also be honed and polished to create a beautiful textured finish, giving it a timeless appearance.
Marble is a naturally occurring sedimentary rock that has been metamorphosed into a beautiful, durable stone. It can withstand the elements and weather, but keeping it clean and free of dirt is important. This will prevent it from fading and deteriorating over time.
While marble is a popular choice for headstones, it does require a slightly higher level of maintenance than granite. It can be a little more sensitive to rain and erode the lettering over time if exposed to water.
Another benefit of choosing marble for a headstone is that it’s softer than granite, making it easier to carve and get fine details. However, this softness can also be disadvantageous – it’s susceptible to damage from sharp objects and scratches.
In addition, marble can fade over time if it’s not treated properly. The calcite in the stone can oxidize and change color. This can make it difficult for stonemasons to work with and could cause the inscriptions on the monument to become blurry over time.
Maintenance
A headstone is a memorial to your loved one and should be kept in good condition. Over time, dirt and other stains can build up on the surface, leading to mold and mildew growth. These stains are unsightly and can make the headstone difficult to read.
To keep the headstone in good condition, you need to clean it regularly. Typically, you should clean granite grave markers every 18 to 24 months and marble tombstones every 7-10 years. However, this may vary depending on the type of stone that is used for the memorial and the cemetery’s maintenance practices.
In general, you should avoid using harsh cleaners such as soap or chemicals that can damage the surface of the grave monument. Instead, use a mild cleaning solution and water or a product that is specifically made for cleaning marble and granite.
The first thing you should do is inspect the stone for any cracks or flaking that could result in further damage. If the damage is serious, it will need to be repaired before you can clean it again.
Once you’ve found any cracks or damaged areas, use a soft brush to gently scrub away any debris and dirt that is present on the stone. This can take a while to do on larger stones, but it’s worth it in the end, as it will help improve the headstone’s appearance.
When you’re done, wipe down the stone with a dry cloth. You may need to repeat this process a few times, especially if the headstone has been in the sun. This will help to give it a nice, polished finish that will shine like new again.
If your headstone has a natural or colored finish, you can also use a commercial granite sealant to protect the memorial from stains and prevent water-based stains from forming on the stone. This will help keep the stone from fading or becoming discolored and give the headstone a shiny, polished look that’s sure to please your loved ones.
Cost
When choosing a headstone for a loved one, it is important to consider the costs of various materials. The type of stone you choose is a crucial factor in determining the final cost and how long it will last.
Granite and marble are two of the most popular choices for headstones, and both are very durable. They are also extremely beautiful and can be carved into any design you like. However, they are both more expensive than some other options, such as bronze.
Generally, the cost of a headstone can range from a few hundred dollars for a simple, flat marker to $10,000 for an elaborate upright marble marker. The amount you pay will depend on the type of stone, design, and additional features you add to it.
The price of a headstone can also be affected by the kind of finish that is applied to it. A polished finish will look more high-end and shiny but requires more maintenance than a rock-pitched or sawn finish.
A part-polished finish is also an option for a more affordable headstone, as it does not require as much maintenance as a polished headstone. It will still need to be cleaned, though.
Another key factor in a headstone’s cost is the color you select. Different colors of granite can vary in price, with the rarest ones typically being the most expensive.
Gray is the most common color for granite headstones, and it is an inexpensive choice that will fit into just about any setting. It is also a relatively neutral color and will blend with the surrounding landscape.
Black is also an option for a granite headstone, and it can also be very beautiful. Some people choose this color because it resembles the night sky. It is slightly more expensive than gray granite, but the contrasting darkness of it against the light engravings makes it worth the extra money.
Pink granite is another popular choice, as it is a delicate shade of pink often used to commemorate a loved one who died suddenly or was a special someone. The softer hue of pink granite makes it more delicate than other colors, but it is as durable as any other variety.
I like that you pointed out how choosing a stone that would last is important if you’re looking for the perfect headstone to commemorate a loved one. I was watching a documentary with my wife last night and it was all about how a funeral and burial are organized. It seems there is plenty of signature memorial dealers nowadays, which sounds nice.