The history of headstones spans thousands of years when they were originally known as grave markers. As early as 3000 BC, these memorial monuments have been used by the Celtic and Roman cultures to commemorate the life of loved ones who have passed away.
The only difference is that these markers were earlier treated as megalithic monuments (signifying a huge burial chamber). Today, every individual burial site has a pillow headstone. From the unique burial rituals of the Egyptians to the sepulcher insignia of the modern world, a gravestone is a deeply personal way of honoring a loved one’s memory.
The design of each headstone would primarily depend upon the specific cemetery’s rules. Keeping that in mind, here are the most popular headstone designs to choose from:
1 Upright Headstones
Also known as an upright marker or monument, this headstone normally stands upright. It consists of two parts – the die and the base. The former sits on top of the latter, which generally has the name of the deceased and other details.
Upright headstones may be used to symbolize the burial site of an individual or a couple (as a companion headstone). The die (also known as the tablet), which sits on top, usually stands in a vertical position. The most popular finish is the serpentine finish, while other options also exist, such as flat top, rooftop, and corner round.
2 Slant Headstones
This headstone is also known as the slant marker or tombstone. On the surface, slant headstones look a lot like upright headstones. However, there are a few exceptions.
These headstones are generally vertical from the back, whereas the front is slightly slanted in position. This position gives the die’s bottom a stocky shape. As a result, slant headstones do not need a base to make them durable and sturdy. A base can be used should you desire, but it is not necessary (as in the case of upright headstones).
For instance, Legacy Headstones creates slant grave markers for both individual and couple burial sites. In these headstones, the inscription is generally found on the slanted slab itself (with no base required). Besides slanted headstone design, you can also check here for different customization options.
3 Bevel and Flat Headstones
With other names, such as flat markers and gravestones, these headstones are leveled with the ground. Still, there are generally two kinds:
● Flushed – The headstone is laid completely flat on the ground.
● Raised – The headstone rises slightly above the ground level.
Typically, flat headstones are rectangular in shape with a thickness of 4 inches.
On the other hand, a bevel headstone is one in which the back is slightly raised as compared to the front. These headstones are thicker, measuring at least 6 inches.
4 Wing Headstones
Also known as a wing-style memorial or monument, a wing headstone usually consists of a slab/die (with wings) resting on a base. The two are separated using a pedestal, which supports a vase.
The pedestal or plinth showcases the family name, whereas the two wings are used to display the individual’s name. Alternatively, the base may have the family name inscribed, whereas the individual’s name, epitaph, or marriage date is found on the plinth.
In some cases, the wing headstone features a larger slab or die which sits between the wings instead of a plinth.
5 Bench Headstones
These headstones, normally resembling a bench, are not only found in cemeteries but also in many public areas. Loved ones get to sit and enjoy quality time ruminating about the life of the deceased as well as admiring the beautiful surroundings.
While the length of a bench headstone may differ, they are most commonly at least 36” long. Not only that, but also the bench design may differ – pedestal bench, harp leg bench, arm bench, and park bench.
6 Children’s Headstones
Memorializing the brief life of a beloved child is never easy. Also known as children’s monuments or grave markers, these headstones are available in various designs.
This is one unique headstone design in which you are not limited to a specific style. For instance – a child or infant’s headstone may be shaped like a toy truck, alphabet blocks, a cartoon character, or a simple yet beautiful heart.
Building a Lasting Memorial
As difficult as it seems at the time, the headstone acts not only as a genealogical identification for the deceased but also as a personal symbol of their memory. To build a lasting memorial for your loved one, you must abide by the burial site’s specific rules and guidelines.
Within those boundaries, you have plenty of scopes to choose a preferred design, material, and epitaph. And in doing so, celebrate and immortalize the life that rests beneath.
