There are lots of different kinds of grave markers you can choose after a funeral home service in Colonial Beach, VA. What are the different kinds of grave markers? How do you decide which one is right for you or you’re lost loved one? Read on to learn more.
First of all, there is a difference between grave markers and headstones. A headstone sometimes referred to as a tombstone, is an upright monument generally made of granite. A grave marker, however, has a flatter design and often comes with a bronze marker or inscription. You can also have a cemetery memorial marker. These are as simple as a plaque attached to a stake to mark the grave and can include a bronze plaque.
What are the most common types of grave markers? They include:
- Niche Markers – If you choose to bury your loved one’s remains in a columbarium you can choose to add a niche marker. These markers denote which niche belongs to which person, making it easy for the bereaved to visit their loved one’s remains.
- Military Marker – Veterans usually receive special grave markers to denote their military service. These markers are usually upright headstones or tombstones and are often provided by the government.
- Slant Upright Marker – These markers are simply headstones with slanted fronts. Usually, between 12 and 16 inches high, the angle of the headstone makes reading the inscription easy. They can be finished with bronze memorial plaques or other inscriptions.
- Etched Portrait Marker – Etched portrait markers are flat or bevel markers that have an etched portrait of the deceased on their surface.
- Sculptures – Sculpture markers are usually either a separate statue or sculped as part of the tombstone itself. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes from angels to hearts and much more.
- Bevel Markers – Bevel markers are designed to lay flat on the ground at the head of the grave with the back slightly raised to create an upright illusion. They are often polished and finished with engravings, inscriptions, artwork, and other touches.
- Bronze Markers – Made out of bronze, these markers are attached to another grave marker.
- Flat Markers – These grave markers are often the most affordable as they are flush to the ground and only about three to four inches thick. Flat markers are usually rectangular in shape and have a polished finish with the common inscriptions, carvings, and symbols.
Don’t forget to think about what kind of material you want for your grave marker. There are tons of different materials to choose. Bronze and granite are both popular choices because they are strong, hardy, and cost-effective. Granite is also a good choice if you want some color as it comes in colors including gray, green, white, black, red, and even blue.
We are here to help if you have more questions on grave markers or Colonial Beach, VA funeral home services. We have years of experience and are ready and willing to do whatever we can to help you in your time of loss or preplanning.