Monuments
Honoring a loved one who has passed away is an important part of the grieving process. Choosing a monument memorial stone can be a special way to create a lasting tribute to their memory. In this content, we explain the process of selecting a monument memorial stone, including choosing the shape, finish, color and design. By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and personalized memorial that honors your loved one's life.
The Monument Process
To honor the memory of a loved one who has passed away, choosing a monument memorial stone can be a special and meaningful way to create a lasting tribute. While making this important decision, there are a few steps that should be taken into consideration to create a unique and personalized monument.
Available Shapes
The first step is to choose the shape of the stone. This includes selecting the top and base that you prefer. There are a variety of options to choose from, such as rectangular, heart-shaped, or even a custom design, which can help you create a unique and personalized monument.
Select each of the shapes for more details and to see photos of a completed monument in that style. See Style Options below for more information.
Style Options
After choosing the shape, the next step is to decide on the finish of the stone. A rough finish can give the stone a more natural look, while a polished finish can create a shiny, reflective appearance. Depending on the shape you choose, you may have the option to have different finishes for the top, face, sides, and base.
Tops
Below are renderings of standard tops included on our monuments.
Bases
There are four base options for the monument. See renderings below.
- Brp: Balanced Rock Pitched–Beautiful rocky texture.
- Pft: Polished Flat Top–This means that the top surface of a base or marker is polished
- Pmg: Polished Margin–A margin is measured in inches and is a polished portion of the granite on the top of a base or marker.
- Bevel Front
Finishes
There are three finish options for the monument. This does not affect the base.
- P/2 Finish: Front/Back–Smooth, Top/Sides–Rough
- P/3 Finish: Front/Back/Top–Smooth, Sides–Rough
- P/5 Finish: All Surfaces–Smooth
Color Options
Next, it’s time to select the color of granite you want for the monument. There are many different colors available, ranging from light pink to deep black, and each has a unique quality that can help reflect the personality and style of your loved one.
Blue Pearl
China Black
China Gray
China ST
Imperial Pink
Emerald Pearl
Foundation Gray
Georgia Gray
North American Pink
Wausau Red
Black Galaxy
Blue Silk
Cats Eye
India Black
India Mahogany
India Mist
India Red
Paradiso
Red Multi-Color
Taj Aurora
Tropical Green
Personalization
The final and most important step is to decide what words and images to include on the monument. This can be a heartfelt message, a favorite quote, or even a favorite image that captures the spirit of your loved one. This is a deeply personal decision that can be tailored to reflect the unique personality and life of your loved one.
All of our monuments can be etched with a laser, sandblasted or by hand.
Laser and Hand Diamond Etched
Either laser or hand etching is used to create the design or scene on the stone, using either etched lettering or shallow sunk/skin-cut lettering. To maintain the quality of presentation, etching is only done on the darkest stone colors. Hand etching is necessary when customizing stock designs or to ensure the accuracy of details in portraits requested by the buyer of the memorial.
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- Corner
- Single Portrait
- Up to 10″ Scene
- Up to 24″ Scene
Flat and Shape Carving
The Flat Carving technique is a traditional method that involves sandblasting a design onto the stone without any raised parts, using sandblast lettering. On the other hand, Shape Carving creates a design that appears to have a three-dimensional shape, also using traditional sandblast lettering.
Three-Dimensional Sandblasting
Three-Dimensional Sandblasting is a specialized technique that creates a lifelike design on the stone with depth and texture. The process involves using a digital or physical model as a guide for sandblasting, resulting in a three-dimensional appearance. It requires a high level of skill and precision and careful selection of stone type. This technique produces stunning and personalized memorials.
Overall, choosing a monument memorial stone is a beautiful and meaningful way to honor the memory of a loved one. By selecting the shape, finish, color, and design, you can create a one-of-a-kind tribute that will stand the test of time.