Types of Headstones and Grave Markers Explained

The main types of grave markers are upright headstones, flat (flush) markers, bevel and slant markers, bench memorials and bronze plaques. They are made mostly of granite, marble or bronze. Which type you can use depends first on your cemetery, because many cemetery sections allow only certain styles and sizes. The sections below explain each type, how materials compare and what to check before you order.

What are the main types of headstones and grave markers?

Upright headstone. The classic style: a vertical stone, often a "die" set on a base. It offers the most space for lettering, a design or a family name, and it is the easiest to see from a distance. It also takes more stone and a proper foundation, so it generally costs more than a flat marker.

Flat (flush) marker. A flat memorial set level with the ground. Cemeteries often prefer or require these in lawn sections because mowers can pass over them. The tradeoffs are less room for text and the chance that grass, leaves or snow cover the inscription.

Bevel marker. A flat marker with a slight rise toward the back, so the face tilts upward a little. It is easier to read than a fully flat marker and still sits low to the ground.

Slant marker. A low stone with an angled face. It reads more easily than a flat marker and takes less space than an upright, and it falls between the two in size.

Bronze marker on a base. A bronze plaque, often mounted on a granite or concrete base. Bronze is common in memorial parks.

Bench or other memorial. A stone bench can serve as the headstone and also give visitors somewhere to sit. These are only allowed where the cemetery permits them, so ask first. See our guide to memorial benches.

Niche marker or plaque. A small bronze or stone plate that covers a niche in a columbarium and carries the name and dates of the person whose ashes are inside. Our guide to columbarium niches explains how these work.

Natural or boulder markers. Some green burial grounds prefer natural fieldstone or a simple flat stone so the site keeps a natural look. Rules vary, so check with the cemetery. Read more in our green burial guide.

What do VA government markers look like?

If the deceased is an eligible veteran, the VA furnishes a headstone, marker or medallion at no charge. The National Cemetery Administration lists these types:

A medallion is a bronze emblem that attaches to a headstone you bought yourself. It carries the word "VETERAN" and the branch of service, and Medal of Honor medallions are also available. The VA furnishes the item at no cost, but in a private cemetery the family arranges and pays for setting it. See our guide to VA headstones and markers for eligibility and how to apply.

Which materials are used, and how do they compare?

Granite is a common choice for lasting stone markers and comes in many colors and finishes. Marble is a classic, lighter stone that some cemeteries and families prefer. Bronze is used for flat markers and niche plaques and is typically set on a base. The VA furnishes its government markers in granite, marble and bronze.

Each cemetery sets its own material limits. Madison's Forest Hill Cemetery, for example, requires that memorials be made of natural stone or bronze. Other cemeteries prohibit certain materials or finishes, so confirm before you buy. Our guide to headstone materials compared goes through how each one weathers.

What will the cemetery allow?

Cemetery rules are often the deciding factor. Rules vary by cemetery and section, and they can cover:

• Marker type. Flat only, upright allowed, or a mix.
• Size. Maximum height, width and thickness.
• Material and finish. Natural stone or bronze only, for example.
• Layout. Madison's Forest Hill Cemetery requires flush markers in some sections, and when a monument is installed on a lot, other markers there must be set flush. It also allows only one marker per grave space or cremation lot, though a shared marker can serve several graves.

Ask the cemetery for the rules for your specific section in writing before you visit a monument company. Our guide to headstone regulations explains how approval works.

How much does a headstone cost?

Prices run widely, depending on size, stone, lettering, finish and how far the cemetery is from the monument company. The Funeral Consumers Alliance's brochure, revised in December 2020, said to expect about $1,000 or more for a headstone with engraving and installation, and that installation alone can cost several hundred dollars. Treat that as a starting figure rather than a typical price, and get itemized written quotes. Our guide to headstone costs covers what to ask for.

How do you choose?

1. Check what the cemetery allows. This narrows the choice immediately.
2. Decide how much to say. More text and a family name suit an upright stone. A name, dates and one line suit a flat marker.
3. Choose a material for your climate and budget. Ask the monument company how it holds up locally.
4. Compare quotes. Ask whether the price includes engraving, foundation and setting.
5. Take your time. There is no legal deadline to place a marker. See how long after burial you can set a headstone.

If you are still weighing burial against cremation, this calculator compares the costs side by side.

What to do next

• Request the written marker rules for your cemetery and section.
• Decide what to put on the stone. See what to put on a headstone.
• If the deceased was a veteran, see whether a free VA marker or medallion applies before you buy.