Types of Headstones Explained: 12 Styles and When to Choose Each

How are headstone types classified?

Monument makers classify memorials mainly by profile — how high the stone stands above the ground and at what angle the inscription faces. Cemeteries use the same terms in their rules, so knowing them makes every conversation with a cemetery office easier. Our catalog of 101 designs is organized into 12 categories, and the first six below are profiles; the others are design families that can use several profiles.

What is a flat grave marker?

A flat marker lies flush with the ground so mowers pass over it. Many lawn-style memorial parks require flat markers in some sections. They carry names, dates, a short epitaph and small artwork. Our 6 flat designs start from $199.98 for a small flower-shaped marker and reach $4,040.00 for larger companion formats.

What is a bevel or pillow marker?

A bevel marker rises a few inches at the back and slopes gently toward the front, which improves readability and drainage compared with a flat marker. Cemeteries that do not allow uprights sometimes accept bevels. Our 2 bevel designs start at $2,626.00.

What is a slant headstone?

A slant headstone has an angled front face and a flat back, and it usually sits on a base. It is taller than a bevel but lower than an upright, a common compromise where uprights are restricted. Our 4 slant designs start between $3,285.53 and $6,581.16.

What is an upright headstone?

The upright headstone is the traditional tablet on a base. It offers the most space for names, portraits, scripture and artwork, and it is the usual choice for companion memorials. Our 6 upright designs start between $4,070.30 and $13,089.60.

What is a ledger memorial?

A ledger is a full-length granite slab that covers the grave, often paired with an upright headstone. It is common in some family traditions and in cemeteries where a covered grave is preferred. Our 2 ledger designs start at $5,035.86 and $8,362.80.

What is a memorial bench?

A granite bench gives visitors a place to sit and can carry inscriptions on the seat or backrest. Some benches double as columbarium or cremation memorials. Our 5 bench designs start from $5,963.04 to $27,919.43.

What are special-shaped headstones?

Special-shaped headstones are cut into hearts, crosses, books, trees or custom silhouettes. With 52 designs from $3,333.00 to $40,959.54, this is our largest category and the place to start for a memorial that looks like no other.

Which sculptural and themed styles are available?

• Angel memorials (5 designs, from $11,998.80 to $26,664.00) with sculpted guardian or mourning angels.
• Floral headstones (3 designs, $7,554.80 to $9,999.00) with carved roses, lilies or a tree of life.
• Child memorials (5 designs, $7,608.33 to $9,999.00) with gentle motifs such as teddy bears and animals.
• Asian memorials (9 designs, $11,867.50 to $30,138.40) with pagoda tops, dragons, cranes and lotus details.
• Luxury memorial complexes (2 designs, $25,479.27 and $32,860.35) that combine ledger, headstone and architectural elements.

How do I choose the right type?

1. Get the cemetery rules in writing. They decide which profiles are allowed in your section. See our cemetery rules checklist.
2. Count the names. Companion and family memorials need uprights, ledgers or complexes.
3. Decide on the story. Sculpture, portraits and long epitaphs need taller faces.
4. Choose the stone. Our granite color guide compares the 9 color options.
5. Understand the full cost. Prices shown are starting prices for the memorial only; see what a luxury headstone costs.

Browse all 101 designs, visit a showroom, or call +1 888 248 6813 to compare types with a memorial specialist.