Monuments

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Selecting a monument, memorial, or marker to honor a loved one is an important decision that deserves thoughtful consideration. There are many factors to keep in mind.

First, the cemetery you choose may have specific regulations regarding the type, size, or style of monuments allowed. These rules can significantly influence your options. We will reach out to your cemetery on your behalf to learn about their requirements so that we can guide you accurately in selecting a monument that complies with all regulations.

Once a cemetery or memorial garden has been selected, you will find a wide range of monument options to choose from, and we are here to show you examples and help you explore possibilities. A helpful way to begin the design process is to reflect on the story you want your monument to tell about your loved one. Consider these meaningful details:

• Your loved one’s Faith and Beliefs
• Family Heritage
• Special Interests and Accomplishments

Every individual is unique, and your monument should reflect the distinctive qualities of your loved one. With this in mind, we can work together to design a memorial that is as special and one-of-a-kind as they were.

We assist you in choosing the monument type, stone color, size, and shape that will best convey their story for generations to come. Fine etchings, permanent photos, or representations of hobbies or favorite scenes can also be incorporated to add a personal touch.

Another important aspect is the selection of an Epitaph or Verse. This simple yet elegant addition provides words for reflection and remembrance for future generations.

Our team will guide you through every step of the process. It is our experience, attention to detail, and genuine care that set us apart. We encourage you to take your time—there is no need to rush. Allow your ideas to develop naturally. Often, simplicity results in the most beautiful and inspiring monuments. Whatever you decide, we are committed to helping you create a heartfelt memorial that your family will treasure forever.

Upright Monuments

Designed to stand straight up, perpendicular to the ground.

• The engraved section is called a “die,” typically 6” or 8” thick
• The horizontal portion is called the base, which is usually required
• The larger size allows for more personalization and room for engraving
• Scenic designs and family names are commonly added to the back

Slant Monuments

Upright monuments with a slanted design. The thickness noted during ordering usually refers to the base.

• The top is generally 2 inches thick
• Top shapes can be flat, oval, or serpentine
• A standard 2- to 4-inch nosing is recommended to protect the polished etched surface
• A base is optional and usually not required
• Suitable for individual or companion markers

Flat Markers

Designed to lie flat at lawn level.

• All flat markers are a minimum of 4 inches thick
• Provides burial information for a single individual
• Can be ordered as a double-width marker for companions

Bevel Markers

Often referred to as Pillow Markers or Hickeys.

• Feature a gentle bevel slant from back to front.
• The back is 2” thicker than the front to create this effect.
• Suitable for individual or companion markers.
• Typically 6” or 8” thick, though thicker options are available.

Ledgers

Designed to lie flat at lawn level.

• All ledgers are a minimum of 4 inches thick.
• Cover the full length of the burial site.
• The larger size allows for more personalization and engraving space.

Ledgers with Slant or Bevel Markers

Combines a ledger with a slant or bevel design.

• Covers the full length of the burial site.
• Provides ample space for personalized inscriptions and designs.

Cremation Memorials

Similar characteristics to Upright Monuments.

• Usually contain one or more spaces for cremated remains (cremains); cremation urns are not used.
• Most cremation memorials and benches have cored granite spaces where cremains in a plastic bag can be placed.
• Easier to maintain since the marker does not need to be moved for ground burials.

Benches

Popular as both a memorial and a cremation memorial.

• Bases are generally not required.
• Certain bench styles can hold cremains of up to six loved ones.
• Enhances the beauty of a burial garden or memorial space.

Rock Monuments

Similar characteristics to Upright Monuments.

• The space for personalization, engraving, or decoration varies depending on the stone size and polished area.
• Bronze markers can also be mounted.
• Can serve as a cremation memorial.

Finishes

We offer a variety of finishes on our granite monuments and markers. All flat, bevel, and slant markers have a polished face. Upright monuments are polished on the front and back, while bases are polished on the top. Additional sides or full-polish options are available for an extra charge. Unpolished surfaces are typically rock pitched, and the bottom of markers is usually sawed since it is not visible.



• Polished: Smooth, glossy, mirror-like finish.
• Sawed: Smooth surface with a natural, matte appearance.
• Steeled: Smooth surface with a lighter, frosted appearance.
• Rock Pitched: Rough surface finished with hammer and chisel.

Types of Carving

• Flat Carving: Outline only, no dimensional depth.
• Shaped Carving: Textured and dimensional designs.
• Simple Carving: Basic flower or leaf design.
• Band Carving: Continuous design around the memorial.
• Bas Relief Carving: Three-dimensional, intricate, and premium.
• Complicated Carving: Highly detailed, heavy carvings.

Etching

Etchings are suitable only on black, dark red, or dark mahogany granite. Gray or white granite is not recommended. For the finest etchings, Jet Black granite is preferred. Flash Black granite can also be etched, though the design may not appear as vividly.

Etchings are ideal for detailed images. They are permanent but shallower than sandblasted carvings.

Costs depend on the design complexity and memorial size. We can etch any design you envision.
Designs, scenes, and portraits can be plain or color enhanced.



• Plain Etching: Natural granite color shows through polish.
• Color Etching: Special lithochrome paints applied to enhance the design.
  

Panel Types

The different kinds of panels that are used for lettering are called “Family Name Panels” and “Inscription Panels”.

• Family name panels may be placed on the front and back side of an upright monument. This must be indicated when you order. We assume all engraving and etching are on the front of the marker unless otherwise specified.
• The finish for a panel may be frosted or polished.
• Frosted-finish panels will appear to be lighter than the granite color and not shiny.
• Polished-finish panels will have a high gloss, mirror like shine
  

Upright Monument Shapes

There is a wide variety of tops and ends available. However, if you want a memorial with tops and ends that are different or unusual, those designs will usually be more expensive.