When a loved one dies, it may seem like there are hundreds of decisions to be made. Choosing a monument is one of the most important ones for many people because it determines what will mark their loved one's final resting place. 

Cemetery Rules

Before you can begin the process of choosing a monument, you need to know the rules and regulations of the cemetery the monument will be placed in. Many cemeteries have certain rules and restrictions that may vary depending on the plot location. 

Some cemeteries have size limitations. Others might require all headstones or markers to be smooth, flat, and uniform to promote a cohesive look. 

Cemeteries and memorial parks might limit what kinds of materials are permitted for monuments on their land. Many cemeteries only allow granite and bronze markers due to their durability and easy maintenance.

Types of Memorials

There are two basic types of monuments: markers and headstones. Markers are often flat and lay flush with the ground. Some markers are beveled or slanted so that they have a more upright appearance and are more easily read.

Upright headstones are a traditional design that has a tablet-like structure supported on a wide base. Headstones come in many sizes, shapes, and finishes. 

Many people opt to add other details onto a marker or headstone. These can be as simple as a stone vase for a plant or flowers or as elaborate as a full statue or even a video-enhanced marker that has a weatherproof monitor that can play a video by remote control.

Once you've chosen the type of monument you want, you'll need to choose the material. Granite is the most popular headstone and marker material because it can stand up to extreme temperatures and moisture over many years. Some people opt for other materials, such as marble, concrete, limestone, or bronze.

Curbing and Covering

Once you've chosen a headstone or marker, you might want to add additional details and design to make the grave look more like a true monument. Curbing and covering are two popular monument design styles often chosen for graves with headstones.

Curbing involves placing a stone border around the entire burial plot. Like headstones and markers, curbing can be made of different types of stone, with granite being one of the most popular and durable choices. Curbing can be made slanted or stepped, meaning it comes up around the plot at different heights along each edge to add an ornamental design.

Covering the entire plot in a stone slab is another popular design to finish off a grave plot. Covering can also be done with granite chips inside curbing.

If you have trouble deciding on a monument or don't know where to start, a funeral director can help guide you in your memorial choice and other steps in the funeral and burial planning process.