While most people do not like to think about a time when they will no longer be around, the reality is that this will happen to everyone. And those people who recognize and accept this fact know that they can make the process and inevitable future easier on those they leave behind by pre-planning their funeral and final resting place. This step will also ensure that the deceased person will receive the services and get the monument that they want to commemorate their life. So, if you are one of those people who would prefer to unburden their loved ones in the future and ensure a ceremony and monument befitting your life and legacy, then get to know some of the options available to you for headstone (cemetery monument) materials. 

Granite Cemetery Monuments

Granite is one of the most durable and elegant stones available from which to build a cemetery monument. This stone comes in a variety of color options to suit any taste and needs. From extremely dark stone (almost black) to light beige, there is a natural granite option for every taste.

Due to computerized and more precise carving technologies, granite headstones can be customized not only with identifying text and an epithet, but also with borders, designs, and graphics such as a cross, flower, or dove. Granite may be more expensive than other headstone options, but is the most durable and long-lasting option, making it well worth the extra cost. (For more information, contact Genesis Granite.)

Bronze Metal Markers

Another option for marking your final resting place is to use a metal marker rather than a stone monument. Bronze markers are made of a metal alloy that combines a variety of inexpensive metals to forge the marker.

Bronze markers are usually not stand up headstones, but rather parallel to the ground. In fact, some cemeteries only allow the use of these flat metal markers to keep the cemetery aesthetic uniform and easy to maintain.

The metal plaque is usually mounted to a stone base made of granite or marble. The benefit of a metal plaque grave marker is that it is durable and allows for a variety of style choices. For example, if you would like your monument to have an actual photograph of you or you and your beloved spouse on it, this is only possible with a metal plaque (rather than a stone marker).

You can also add raised borders and can include a built-in vase for mourners to leave flowers. However, because bronze plaques are nearly flush to the ground, it can make your final resting place difficult to find for mourners who do not know the cemetery well. 

As you can see, the choice of material for your cemetery marker is one of the more complicated decisions you will need to make when pre-planning your funeral and final resting place. However, if you take care of this important step yourself, you will save your loved ones the burden of doing so in the future. So, consider your options and choose wisely.