Headstones
We offer headstones as single stones, double stones, carved monuments and sculpted monuments.
Double Headstones
Also known as Companion Memorials or Companion Headstones, Double Headstones are built for more than one person, i.e. a husband and wife, or parents and children, which are placed right next to each other. The engraving on a Double Headstone often describes the relationship and bond of those buried there.
Today, most headstones are made of granite or marble. Granite is a durable and popular choice thanks to its resistance to weathering and range of available colors. Marble, known for its classic elegance and unique swirling patterns, is softer than granite and requires more maintenance to prevent weathering and degradation, especially when exposed to the elements.
Headstones can also be produced in bronze often called Bronze Markers or Plaques.
Bronze (a mixture of copper, tin, lead and zinc) is an incredibly hearty material that has been used over the centuries to make weapons, statues, tools and other items. Bronze headstones typically include a bronze plate with special memorial designs, lettering and the dates of birth and death. These plates are then attached to granite bases.
Well-maintained bronze markers can last for several decades, and in some cases, even a century or more.
The History of Headstones
Headstones have been made of many different materials over time. In the later 1800’s, wooden headstones were used to mark the graves of Civil War soldiers. Wooden headstones lacked durability however so marble was introduced as a more suitable material. Marble was a popular choice for headstone production for many years however proved not to be the best choice as marble is soft and discolors easily.
During the Victorian era, granite was introduced as a substitute material for marble headstones. The variety of colors and crystalline textures, in addition to the durability, make granite a popular choice for headstones. Granite is very hard naturally so it weathers the wrath of time and comes in many different colors including red, brown, black, pinks and the most economical color – gray.