Did you ever wonder about the types of cemetery headstones that are available?

By David McClelland

Many of us have had to choose a headstone (aka tombstone) at one time or another and may be forced to do so again. It may be worthwhile to know what types of stones are available. I did the research and found that:

The earliest type of headstones in America were made of metamorphosis shale. They were the most common from 1650 – 1900. Most were carved in Boston, were grey in color and still survive. They tend to be thinner than marble and are not affected by acid rain. Many of the oldest inscriptions are still readable today.

In Connecticut, the most common stone used from 1650 – 1890 was sandstone, There is still one active sandstone quarry in America in Portland, CT. This stone's disadvantage is that it may tend to delaminate and dissolve back into loose sand over time.

From 1780 – 1830, marble or limestone were the most desired stones and the most desired color was white. However, these stones may be affected by acid rain and, over time, the inscription may become difficult or impossible to read.

Granite (1860 – today) is by far the most durable of all natural rocks and its largest quarry is call, "Rocks of Ages" in Barre, VT. Granite is available in a wide range of colors. Large quantities also came from Westerly, RI. Today, granite is used in cemeteries throughout the world. It is considered the stone of choice due to its exceptional strength and permanence. Many modern cemeteries allow only granite headstones and markers to be installed. Today, our granite comes from the U.S, Germany, Italy and China. This above would lead us to the conclusion that we should select only granite headstones.

What about the cost of a headstone today? There seems to be a wide range of sizes and prices from $500 (closer to $900 installed) to $4,200 ($5,000 installed) and there is a huge selection. The smallest stone lies flat on the ground and is 24" x 12" x 4", while the average upright, double-marker measures 36" x 20" x 6" and would rest on a base that measures 48" x 12" x 6". These are width x height x thickness measurements.

You can even design the headstone yourself. You can also include a photo in the headstone of the deceased person or of the deceased couple. These are quite durable.

You can learn a lot about a village or a city by visiting its cemeteries. A portion of its history will reveal itself as you read the headstones. This is true throughout the world.

This a subject about which you may want to give some thought while you are healthy.