When a loved one passes away, choosing a monument is often the last thing to be considered. But, with the right monument, the look and feel of a loved one’s internment resting place will be remembered by future generations to come. It tells the story of a life well-lived and a person that was loved and celebrated in life.
Choosing a monument should not be a hasty decision; the bereaved and grieving should make thoughtful decisions to avoid any potential remorse. There are three main things to consider before choosing a monument.
Choosing a Monument Type
There are various types of monuments to choose from. Once cemetery restrictions are considered, selecting the type of monument becomes clearer to narrow down. Some monument types are more popular than others. The basic types of monuments include flush markers, bevel markers, slant, upright, and cremation monuments.
Flush Marker
Flush markers or flat markers are the most simple and affordable of all monuments. Flush markers are characterized by their rectangular shape and being set flush with the ground. The size may limit the decorations on the marker, but you can still customize it. Flush markers give the cemetery a neat and uniform appearance. Because the monument will be flush with the ground, it may be more difficult to locate the grave.
Bevel Marker
A bevel marker, also known as a pillow marker, is a raised marker that rests above the ground. It has a gently sloping angle, making it easier to recognize from a distance in a cemetery. In addition, the sloping surface of the bevel marker helps it stay clean for a long period. There are many ways to customize a bevel marker, making it easier to memorialize the life of your loved one.
Slant Marker
Slant markers are popular because they stand upright and can easily be seen from a distance, standing around twelve to sixteen inches tall. It can be placed on a granite base or installed directly on a concrete foundation. Slant markers have more surface space for engraving flowers, quotes, scenery, or portraits.
Upright Monument
Upright monuments are the most commonly used cemetery memorial used today, offering the largest surface area for any design you wish. Designers can cut upright monuments into shapes like a heart or teardrop. You can even use it to commemorate a couple or even an entire family. An upright monument is easy to locate in a cemetery. They also stay clean for long periods. The possibilities are infinite when investing in an upright monument.
Cremation Monument
Memorialization is not just for traditional burials. Cremation monuments are any type of structure that is made to hold a cremation urn for ashes. It serves as a permanent place of remembrance as opposed to scattering the ashes of your loved one. Cremation monuments can be created to hold one or more cremation urns.
Materials Available When Choosing a Monument
There are three types of materials generally used for monuments; bronze, marble, or granite. The price, quality, and appearance of the materials are important factors to consider when deciding on which one to select.
Bronze
Bronze is a metal alloy created by blending copper and tin. Bronze can become costly during the design process because the designs have to be created beforehand for the casting process. In addition, bronze develops a green patina over time, which may be undesirable for some.
Marble
Marble is the softest material out of the three mentioned in this section. Marble monuments are commonly found in older cemeteries over 100 years old. It is not used much anymore because it erodes quickly and easily.
Granite
Granite is the superior option because it is highly durable and does not rust. In the hardness category, it comes in second to diamond. It is a sturdy material and stands up well to the engraving process. In addition, granite can offer a unique look because it is widely available in different colors. Maintaining a granite monument simply needs a cloth to wipe it down to restore its original look.
Choosing a Monument Design
The design is usually the last step when selecting a monument, but it’s usually the first thing people think about. Elements of the design include lettering, layout, carving style, and artwork.
Lettering
Lettering consists of the type of font and engraving. Choosing the proper font and engraving is important when you want the words to stand out. Sunken letters, which are precise and elegant, are the most popular lettering on monuments today. This process involves sandblasting the letters into the monument. When choosing a font, pick one that is easier to read, such as the traditional Times New Roman.
Layout
Treat a monument as a blank canvas for you to bring your loving memories of your loved one to life. The layout refers to the placement of all the elements of the monument, such as the name, dates, artwork, and any quotes or religious symbols.
Carving style
The main carving styles are flat carving, shaped carving, and etching. Flat carving is the most basic of the three mentioned, using sandblasting to carve into the monument. Shaped carving is done by an artist using a tool to achieve a three-dimensional look and is typically done for floral designs. Etching provides a highly detailed look using a computer-operated laser. Etching is great for placing a quality portrait of a loved one onto the monument.
Artwork
You can use artwork on a monument to express feelings just as well as words. Pictures or symbols can be used to represent the impact a loved one had in this world. Using art is a great way to show off any hobbies or achievements of your loved one. You can select artwork from preexisting designs to ensure neatness and uniformity.
A monument is a wonderful way to tell the story of your loved one. It is a lasting symbol for those who have passed on in our lives. In addition, a monument should inspire faith and evoke the love you shared in this lifetime. Although it can be overwhelming to design a monument, know that you are not alone in that sentiment.
Choose The Best Monument For Your Loved Ones
Memorializing and remembering your loved ones in a way that they deserve and that you can afford, can often be a challenging task. Thankfully, having a basic understanding of your options and what you may be looking for can help make this difficult process just a little easier.
The tips outlined should help inform and guide you, and the Miami Monument Company is here to help you throughout your experience. They offer quality, custom monuments built to meet your wants and needs. Reach out online at [email protected] or call us at (786) 391-3600 so that you can honor your loved ones the way they deserve.
