Different Types of Grave Markers and Memorials

The concept of memorialization is such an interesting one. For those who personally knew the loved one, a memorial is simply a reminder of who they were and the impact they had on their friends and family. Once those acquaintances of the loved one have passed on as well, a memorial becomes so much more than a reminder. A memorial personifies those who have passed on. It may be the only thing future generations have access to about someone’s life, so it is no wonder there are so many options when it comes to different types of grave markers and memorials.

There are many different factors that play into what type of memorial is chosen. Some cemeteries only allow certain types of memorials to be installed. Certain types of markers are also popular in certain parts of the country.

For example, granite grave markers stand up better to salt spray, so they tend to be more popular on oceanic coastlines. Culture is also a huge part of the decision making process. Many consumers tend to follow traditions that their predecessors have laid out.

Sometimes, the decision just comes down to personal preference, but no matter how the decision is made, it is important to understand what options are available when it comes to different types of grave markers. The three main types of grave markers are granite, marble and bronze; all of which can be customized based on individual preferences.

Granite Markers

Granite memorials are the most common type of markers today. Many people are familiar with granite kitchen countertops. They are very desirable due to their natural beauty. The fact that they are nearly impossible to scratch, stain or chip contributes to their popularity. Many families are drawn to granite markers for these very same reasons.

Another drawing card for families is that every granite memorial is unique in terms of color, pattern, and texture. Depending on cemetery regulations, families have the option of choosing upright, flush to the ground, or slanted memorials.

Due to the fact genealogy is such a popular hobby in the United States, it is important to ensure that future generations will be able to trace their ancestors. Granite memorials will enable families to do so because it is one of the most durable natural materials in the world and according to memorials.com, granite markers can remain intact for thousands, yes thousands, of years.

Granite memorials are also very strong and can resist harsh weather. They take well to laser etching and do not scratch or fade; making them forever legible. Families who choose granite memorials will have peace of mind knowing their loved one’s legacy will be preserved and their memorial will withstand the test of time.

Marble Memorials

Marble grave markers were very common around the 1850’s through the 1940’s. They were the most cost effective and easiest to produce due to the tools available at that time. Families today who select marble memorials for their loved ones are drawn to their unique veining (or swirling) patterns and embedded shadings. Marble markers come in a wide range of beautiful colors. White and gray are the most common due to affordability.

Through the years it was found that marble markers chip, scratch, and crack easily. Another drawback is that engraving becomes more and more difficult to discern over time. Around the 1920’s the price of granite became more affordable. As a result, granite memorials, which are more durable, started to become more popular.

While marble does not hold up well in outdoor settings, it does stay intact and retain its elegance for hundreds of years. Michaelangelo’s famous sculpture of David that was carved from marble over 500 years ago is a prime example.

While here we are focusing on outdoor memorials, it is worthwhile to mention that families who select an indoor crypt, mausoleum, or urn made of marble can be confident their loved one will be honorably memorialized for years to come.

Bronze Grave Markers

Second to granite, bronze markers are the most common memorials today. Many families are drawn to the natural elegance, warmth, and durability of bronze memorials. They lay flat to the ground and can be mounted to granite or secured to the ground on concrete. Bronze markers are offered in all different shapes and sizes.

Part of what makes bronze markers unique and desirable is the fact there are so many personalization options available. Some of Trigard Memorials choices include:

• Full-color photo medallions
• Collage of colored or oxide photos
• Custom backgrounds in oxide and full color
• Personalized emblems

Over time, bronze goes through a natural protection process called oxidation. The bronze coats itself with a protective layer that turns green, called patina. A protective clear coat is applied to bronze markers slows this process. Trigard Memorials uses an extremely durable powder clear coat called Dura-Sheen® that is warranted for 5 years. We can also help provide cleaning and refinishing options for your bronze grave markers.

Many families who choose flat bronze memorials are comforted by the fact their loved one’s final resting place will be in a memorial park. Memorial parks have an open feel, lavish landscaping, and often have unique features such as sculptures and fountains.

The Darby family owns Sunset Memorial Park in Danville Illinois. Common sites you see are people walking for exercise, families having picnics, and children feeding the swans at the pond.

Due to the strength, countless personalization options and park-like setting they will be placed, bronze markers make for a unique, ever-lasting memorable tribute for a loved one.

The Choice is Yours

Regardless of the type of memorial a family selects, the memorial design should be a reflection of the deceased’s personality and the way they lived their life. If you and or your loved ones have not already done so, preplanning the memorial selection can help the person being memorialized make an eternal statement. A memorial not only permanently commemorates a loved one, but it will also help future generations learn about their ancestors.

If you are reading this blog because you will be picking out a memorial for a loved one, you obviously care about properly commemorating someone very special in your life. It is our goal to help families make an educated decision.

Selecting a memorial can be a difficult thing to do. However, it is an essential step in beginning the healing process. A grave memorial helps us acknowledge a loved one is gone and properly memorialize them for years to come. I hope this article has helped inform you of the different types of grave markers and memorials available to you and your family.