Selecting a monument for a loved one is a meaningful way to honour their life and create a lasting tribute. Monuments are more than markers; they are deeply personal symbols of remembrance that provide a place for family and friends to gather, reflect, and remember. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the key considerations and decisions involved in choosing a monument, helping you create a tribute that reflects the character and legacy of your loved one.

Step 1: Decide on the Type of Monument

Monuments come in various forms, each offering different ways to mark a gravesite or commemorative location. Here are some popular options:

• Headstones: The most common type of monument, typically placed at the head of a grave. Headstones come in various shapes, including upright, bevelled, and flat markers.
• Grave Markers and Plaques: Smaller than headstones, these are often chosen for cremation sites, lawn sections, or as additional markers.
• Kerbed Monuments: These form a perimeter around the grave and are often paired with an upright headstone or plaque for a complete design.
• Mausoleums and Vaults: These are larger, above-ground structures that hold the remains of one or more individuals, often chosen by families wishing for a more substantial memorial.

Selecting the right type is the foundation of your monument choice, as it will determine the overall structure, size, and potential for customisation.

Step 2: Choose the Material

The choice of material affects the monument’s durability, appearance, and suitability for specific designs. Common materials include:

• Granite: A popular choice for monuments due to its durability and range of colours, from classic black and grey to vibrant shades like blue and red. Granite is weather-resistant and suitable for intricate designs.
• Marble: Known for its elegant appearance, marble offers a refined look but requires more maintenance than granite due to its susceptibility to weathering.
• Bronze: Often used for plaques or decorative elements, bronze adds a timeless look to any monument and weathers beautifully over time, developing a natural patina.
• Sandstone and Limestone: These stones have a rustic, natural look and are traditionally used for memorials, though they may require more upkeep to maintain their appearance.

Consider the monument’s location and climate when choosing a material. For outdoor settings, granite and bronze are ideal for their durability, while marble may be better suited to sheltered or indoor areas.

Step 3: Select the Monument Shape and Style

Once you’ve chosen a material, the next step is to select the shape and style of the monument. Monument shapes can range from traditional rectangles and upright tablets to more unique and personalised designs. Popular options include:

• Upright Tablets: These are the classic headstone shape, providing ample space for inscriptions and designs. Upright tablets are versatile and well-suited for most cemetery regulations.
• Flat or Lawn Markers: These markers lie flat against the ground, blending with the landscape and offering a subtle presence.
• Shaped Monuments: Custom shapes, such as hearts, books, or crosses, allow for a unique and personalised design that reflects the deceased’s personality or beliefs.
• Kerbed and Full Grave Monuments: These cover the entire grave, often with a frame around the edge, and provide space for additional customisation.

Choosing the shape and style helps set the tone of the monument. Classic shapes offer timeless elegance, while custom shapes provide an opportunity for personalisation.

Step 4: Design the Inscription

The inscription is the heart of the monument, capturing the essence of the deceased’s life and character. Elements to consider include:

• Name and Dates: The individual’s full name, along with birth and death dates, are essential parts of any inscription. You may also choose to include nicknames, titles, or additional information like family relations.
• Epitaph: An epitaph is a short phrase or message that adds meaning to the monument. This can be a personal quote, a line of poetry, or a religious verse. Examples include “Forever in Our Hearts” or “A Life Well Lived.”
• Symbols and Imagery: Symbols, such as religious emblems, cultural motifs, or icons representing hobbies, can add a personal touch. For example, a cross or Star of David reflects faith, while a nature symbol like a tree or flower represents peace.

At Advanced Stone, we offer a variety of fonts and styles to match the chosen design, using techniques such as sandblasting and laser etching to ensure that each inscription is clear, precise, and durable.

Step 5: Consider Adding Personal Elements

Adding personal elements is an excellent way to make the monument unique and meaningful. Here are some ideas:

• Photographs and Portraits: Laser-etched portraits on granite allow you to include a likeness of the deceased, providing a comforting presence on the monument.
• Cultural and Religious Symbols: Many families choose symbols that reflect their heritage, beliefs, or traditions, such as lotus flowers, angels, or Celtic designs.
• Decorative Elements: Bronze or coloured accents, as well as gilded lettering, can add a striking look. For example, using 23-carat gold leaf on inscriptions can create a timeless, elegant appearance.
• Memorial Accessories: Consider adding vases for fresh flowers, candle holders, or small statues to enhance the monument’s design. These additions create a peaceful, reflective space where family and friends can gather.

Step 6: Consult Cemetery Regulations

Before finalising your design, it’s essential to consult the cemetery’s rules and regulations. Most cemeteries have specific guidelines regarding monument size, material, and placement. These regulations help maintain the grounds’ appearance and ensure all monuments are respectful and well-maintained.

Advanced Stone’s team can help you navigate these regulations, ensuring that your chosen design complies with the cemetery’s requirements without compromising your vision.

Step 7: Set a Budget

Setting a budget early on will help guide your choices in terms of materials, customisation options, and accessories. The cost of a monument can vary widely depending on factors like material, size, and complexity of design. At Advanced Stone, we work with families to create bespoke monuments that respect both their vision and their budget, offering guidance on ways to achieve a meaningful design within their means.

Step 8: Work with Experienced Stonemasons

Crafting a monument requires expertise, skill, and attention to detail. At Advanced Stone, our team of experienced stonemasons combines traditional techniques with modern technology to create monuments that are both beautiful and enduring. We guide families through each step of the process, from choosing materials and designs to finalising inscriptions and artwork, ensuring that the final monument reflects their wishes.

Step 9: Review and Approve the Design

Once the design is finalised, we provide families with an opportunity to review and approve it before production begins. This ensures that every detail, from the inscription to the choice of materials and symbols, meets your expectations. We understand the importance of this process and are committed to providing compassionate support and clear communication at every stage.

Step 10: Installation and Maintenance

After the monument is crafted, our team will handle the installation process, ensuring that it is securely placed and positioned according to the cemetery’s regulations. We also provide guidance on how to care for the monument to preserve its appearance and durability over time. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help protect the monument from weathering, ensuring it remains a dignified tribute for generations.

Creating a Lasting Tribute

Choosing a monument is a significant and personal decision, providing a way to honour your loved one’s memory with respect and love. By following these steps and considering the various options available, you can create a monument that reflects the unique personality and legacy of the person it commemorates. At Advanced Stone, we are here to guide you through each stage, helping you make informed decisions and create a tribute that will stand as a lasting reminder of your loved one’s life.

For more information or to begin designing a custom monument, visit Advanced Stone or contact our experienced team for a consultation.