Choosing a headstone style is an important step in paying tribute to a loved one who has passed away. A headstone, tombstone, or grave marker becomes a lasting memorial and a place of remembrance where families can gather to grieve and honour the deceased loved one. Each headstone style has its own characteristics, shapes and sizes, and aesthetic appearance, depending on the cemetery, the family’s budget, or personal preferences.
Let’s explore the common types of headstones found in cemeteries across Canada.
Why tombstone style is important to honour the deceased
The choice of a gravestone style is not just about appearance. A headstone is a strong symbolic element that helps represent the memory, personality, and legacy of the person who has passed away.
In a cemetery, every monument contributes to the overall landscape and tells a unique story. A tombstone must also endure the passage of time and resist harsh weather conditions. In Canada, this is particularly important due to snow, frost, and seasonal changes.
This is why choosing the right materials, such as granite, marble, or limestone, as well as the right shape and inscription, is essential.
Some families prefer a simple and discreet grave marker, while others choose a more elaborate memorial monument with a sculpture, statue, angel, or engraved portrait. The choice may also depend on cemetery regulations, the available space around the grave, and the desired size of the monument.
The main types of headstones
Today, monument makers offer a wide variety of headstone types. Some styles focus on simplicity and elegance, while others highlight personalization through engraved symbols, letters, or meaningful epitaphs carved across the top of the stone.
The classic upright stone
This common monument usually consists of a vertical stone installed on a base at the head of the grave. Most upright tombstones are made from granite or marble, with granite being a popular choice because of its durability and timeless appearance.
Granite allows artisans to engrave, inscribe, and carve detailed inscriptions that remain visible for decades or even a century. Because of their timeless appearance, upright monuments remain a favourite option for families who want a visible and traditional memorial.
Flat headstones and grave markers
Flat grave markers are installed directly in the ground and sit level with the grass. These monuments are commonly used in modern cemeteries where landscape uniformity is important.
Flat markers are often made from granite, although some may include a bronze plaque mounted on stone. They are sometimes referred to as ledger markers and are usually several inches thick, often around 12 inches wide or more, depending on the cemetery regulations.
Personalized memorial monuments
Many families want to create a unique headstone to honour the life and personality of someone they love.
A custom memorial monument allows families to design something truly unique, choosing the shape, symbol, and decorative elements that best represent the life of the deceased.
For example, some families choose a monument featuring:
- a carved angel or statue
- a cross shape or other personalized shapes
- a sculptural design
Modern headstone styles
These monuments often focus on simplicity and contrast between the materials while maintaining a refined and elegant appearance.
Modern designs may feature:
- delicate sculptural details
- an original shape, such as a heart-shaped stone
- contrasting granite colours
- minimalist engraving
They are often chosen by families looking for a monument with a modern style that still acts as a meaningful tribute.
Which type of granite should you choose for a headstone?
Granite is the material most commonly used to create memorial monuments. Its durability makes it ideal for cemeteries in Canada, where monuments must resist frost, moisture, and long-term weather exposure. Granite monuments can last for decades while preserving the clarity of the engraved letters, inscription, and decorative designs.
The different granite colours can influence the final appearance of the monument:
- black granite, known for its strong contrast and elegance
- red granite, which brings warmth to the memorial
- grey granite, appreciated for its classic and understated style
The colour of the stone also affects how clearly the engraved epitaph or decorative elements will appear.
Why choose Martel & Sons for a unique headstone?
Working with a professional monument maker is essential when selecting a durable and meaningful memorial monument.
Martel & Sons has recognized expertise in the design, manufacture, and installation of headstones, tombstones, and grave markers. We support families through every stage of the project, from selecting the material and style of the monument to the final installation at the cemetery gravesite.
Thanks to a wide catalogue of different types of headstones, families can find a monument tailored to their needs, their budget, and the specific regulations of the cemetery.
The experienced artisans at Martel & Sons carefully carve, engrave, and design monuments that will preserve the remembrance and legacy of the deceased for generations.
FAQ — Headstone Styles
What is the most common headstone style?
The most common style is the upright headstone, which usually consists of a vertical monument mounted on a base. This design offers more space to inscribe a name, dates, meaningful letters, or a commemorative epitaph.
What is the difference between a headstone and a grave marker?
A headstone usually refers to an upright gravestone or monument placed at the head of the grave. A grave marker is typically a flat stone installed directly in the ground with a smaller engraved inscription.
How long does it take to personalize a headstone?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the project. Creating a custom memorial monument may take several weeks. The delay depends on the materials used, the engraving work required, and the approval process from the cemetery prior to the installation.