Gravestone
Gravestone Options by Artisan Memorials
Choosing the Right Gravestone:
A Thoughtful Tribute
Practical Choices for You
Choosing a gravestone depends on stone type, inscription, and the ground at the cemetery. Granite lasts more than a century and allows deep engraving with sharp lettering. Marble has elegant veining but may weather sooner, often within 50–80 years in exposed sites.
Welsh Slate: Distinctive and Durable
Firstly, Welsh slate is one of the most admired gravestone materials and one that we work with a lot. It has a fine grain that allows crisp carving and precise lettering. The deep blue-grey colour blends beautifully with both rural and urban churchyards. In addition, it resists weathering and keeps inscriptions clear for decades. As a result, many families choose Welsh slate for bespoke gravestones that balance strength with elegance.
Other Natural Stones
Sandstone and Yorkstone on the other hand, provide warm, traditional tones. Sandstone ranges from buff to rich red and carves easily for inscriptions. Yorkstone, quarried in northern England, is dense and textured, making it suitable for bases and surrounds. However, both need more care in damp cemeteries.
Slate, sandstone, Yorkstone, granite, or marble — each material has unique qualities. For example, many families select a 30–40 mm granite gravestone for durability and clear lettering. In addition, our typical lead time is four to six weeks for bespoke memorials.
A Unique Gravestone to Honour Every Life
Gravestone style shapes how you remember a life. You can choose a discreet plaque, a traditional upright memorial, or a curbed set that frames the grave. Custom shapes are also available to reflect a unique personality. We provide gravestones to suit all rules and budgets. Many families select granite or marble for clear inscriptions and long-term strength.
Gravestone or Headstone?
A gravestone is also called a headstone, tombstone, or grave marker. You may also prefer a low plaque. For example, a memorial plaque measuring 300 × 200 mm suits gardens or flat plots. In addition, protective finishes reduce weathering and keep inscriptions legible.
Memorial Plaques: A Subtle yet Impactful Choice
Plaques can be fixed flat to the ground or attached to a wall. They are popular for gardens and communal plots. Bronze or granite plaques often measure 200–400 mm wide. You can include an emblem, photograph, or inscription. In addition, plaques need less care than upright gravestones.
Curbed Headstone Sets: A Complete Memorial
Curbed sets surround a grave with edging and a central gravestone. Options include granite in black, grey, or red. They may also feature a footstone or centre plate for longer text.
Most curbed sets measure around 2.4 × 1.2 metres for a double plot. In addition, families often request flower beds or integrated vases. Matching the stone type across the set gives a balanced look. For example, a polished granite gravestone with honed edging creates elegant contrast.
Unique Designs: Children’s, Chinese, and Islamic Gravestones
Finally, your gravestone choice can be tailored for cultural or age-specific needs. For example, children’s gravestones are often smaller, at 350–450 mm high. Chinese gravestones may include carved calligraphy. Islamic gravestones often use simple forms with Arabic script.
In addition, families can request symbols such as crescents, floral borders, or custom carvings. Therefore, each design reflects personal belief, tradition, and family wishes.
Personalising Your Gravestone
Designing with Care
You can personalise a gravestone with its shape, finish, inscription, and motif. We offer more than 30 fonts and over 100 designs to choose from. In addition, hand-carved details and bespoke shapes make each memorial unique.
Engraving and Lettering
Options include sandblasting, hand cutting, or laser etching. Sandblasting creates bold, deep lettering that lasts. Laser etching produces detailed portraits at up to 300 dpi. Furthermore, font choices include serif, sans serif, script, and custom styles.
Why Artisan Memorials Stands Out
Every gravestone we create combines careful craft and quality stone. Choose from marble, slate, sandstone, granite, or Yorkstone. Our stonemason shapes each stone with precision and ensure it meets cemetery rules.
Experience and Expertise
We have over 25 years of experience and have installed more than 1,000 gravestones so you can feel confident that you are in safe hands with us.
Your Next Step
Book a free consultation with our experienced team to choose a gravestone. You can see granite, marble, slate, sandstone, and Yorkstone samples. Within three business days we create a 3D mock-up.
A gravestone marks a life with dignity. At Artisan Memorials, we listen carefully and guide you through the process. So get in touch today and let us help you create a lasting, unique tribute to your loved one.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gravestones
1. What is the best type of stone for a gravestone?
The best stone for a gravestone depends on the look and durability you want. Many families choose Welsh slate gravestones because of their fine grain, elegant finish, and timeless appearance. Others prefer sandstone gravestones for their warm, traditional feel. Granite gravestones remain popular due to their strength, while limestone and marble gravestones offer softer tones and classic styling.
2. Are Welsh slate gravestones long-lasting?
Yes, Welsh slate gravestones are known for their durability and resistance to weathering. They maintain a sharp inscription for many decades, which is why Artisan Memorials often recommends slate for families who want a gravestone with both beauty and longevity.
3. How does sandstone compare to limestone for a gravestone?
Both sandstone and limestone are excellent choices for a gravestone, but they have different qualities. Sandstone gravestones tend to have a more rustic, natural appearance, while limestone gravestones are smoother and more refined. Limestone also carves well, making it ideal for detailed lettering and designs.
4. Are marble gravestones still popular?
Yes, marble gravestones are becoming increasingly popular again. They offer a striking white or grey finish and allow for detailed carving. While marble can weather more quickly than granite or slate, many families value its elegance and the traditional feel it brings to a memorial.
5. Which gravestone requires the least maintenance?
If you are looking for a gravestone that requires minimal maintenance, granite gravestones are the most resilient. They resist staining, weather damage, and lichen growth better than softer stones. However, slate gravestones also perform very well with only occasional cleaning needed.
We work all over the UK, offering the complete service, from design to installation
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