What are most headstones made of?
Most gravestones made over the last few centuries are made of a few types of rock: marble, slate, and granite are the big three. Sometimes you run into darker stones made of gabbro, maybe a few sandstone markers, but especially in more recent monuments, marble and granite (and other plutonic rocks) rule the roost.
What is the best material for a tombstone?
If you want a memorial that will last, then the best headstone material is either granite or bronze. Both are known for their durability. However, a lesser-known alternative is the field boulder. While it will not last quite as long as the other two, it will hold up to the elements.
Are headstones made of granite or marble?
Headstones are always manufactured with the intent to withstand the elements for many years (even centuries). The two most common materials for headstones today are granite and bronze. While most headstones are made of granite, bronze has become quite a popular option for memorial use in recent years.
Which headstones last the longest?
A flat quartzite headstone, with laser engraving, is the longest-lasting headstone. It can last centuries if the weather is the only factor in degradation. Quartzite is a very hard material that can withstand almost all climates & the laser-etched engraving will last as long as the headstone does.
How much does it cost to repair a headstone?
The price of resetting a tombstone is not a cut and draw matter. The price will vary from gravestone to headstone. But a general idea is that the larger it is the most expensive it will be to reset. An average cost might be around $200 but can be greatly increased for more elaborate headstones.
How much should I expect to pay for a headstone?
The average cost of a standard flat headstone is around $1,000. But more detailed, upright headstones can cost between $1,000 and $3,000, as you’ll see with this granite headstone and another at a higher price point.