How to choose the right upright granite monument or headstone for your family

Selecting a memorial is a significant journey that combines personal legacy with enduring craftsmanship. An upright monument is a classic choice, offering a tall, visible tribute that stands as a landmark of a life well lived. At JB Newall, we understand that this is likely your first time navigating the world of stone and cemetery regulations.

This guide is designed to simplify the process, explaining the technical details of granite while helping you design a tribute that feels authentic to your family.

What makes an upright monument the right choice?

Before diving into materials, it is important to understand the structure and benefits of an upright design. These memorials are the most prominent markers in a cemetery and are built to be seen.

The two part construction

An upright monument consists of the die and the base. The die is the vertical stone slab that carries the names and artwork. The base is the heavy pedestal it sits upon. This elevated design protects the memorial from grass trimmers and ensures the inscription remains clear and easy to read for generations.

Increased space for storytelling

Because these stones stand vertical, they offer a significantly larger surface area than flat markers. This allows for more detailed epitaphs, multiple family names, or even large laser etched portraits. If you want to include a long poem or a detailed scene of a favorite landscape, the upright format provides the necessary canvas.

What material is best for a permanent memorial?

The longevity of a headstone depends entirely on the material. While historical cemeteries often feature marble or limestone, those materials are porous and tend to erode. Modern memorials prioritize granite for its geological strength.

Natural granite

Granite is an igneous rock formed from cooling magma. It is one of the hardest substances on earth, ranking high on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This means it can withstand the harsh Canadian climate, from freezing winters to hot summers, without cracking or flaking.

Unlike bronze, which oxidizes and turns green, or marble, which attracts lichen and moss, granite is relatively self cleaning. Rain typically washes away dust.

Because it is non porous, it does not absorb moisture that leads to internal cracking. A simple wipe with water is usually all it takes to keep the stone looking brand new.

Which granite color should you select?

The color of your monument is more than just an aesthetic choice. It determines how well the lettering stands out and what kind of engraving techniques can be used. At JB Newall, we source granite from around the world to offer a variety of tones.

Classic Grey and Charcoal

Grey granite is the most traditional option. It is timeless and dignified. When the surface is polished and the letters are sandblasted, the natural contrast makes the name very easy to read. It is an excellent choice for a conservative, elegant memorial.

Jet Black for high detail

Black granite is the premier choice for families who want to incorporate laser etching. Because the stone is so dark and consistent in grain, a laser can etch a photograph or a detailed drawing onto the surface with incredible precision. The result looks like a black and white photograph captured in stone.

What shapes and finishes are the most common?

The silhouette of the stone sets the tone for the memorial. While many people picture a standard rectangle, there are several ways to customize the physical form of the monument.

Traditional serpentine and roof tops

The serpentine top is a gentle curve that resembles a soft wave. It is the most popular choice because it feels graceful. A roof top or peaked top has a sharp angle, which is excellent for shedding water and gives the stone a strong, architectural presence.

Natural rock pitch edges

You can choose to have the edges of your monument polished smooth or left with a rock pitch finish. Rock pitching is a technique where the stone is hand chipped to create a rugged, natural texture. This provides a beautiful contrast to the polished face where the lettering sits.

Specialized heart and book shapes

For companion memorials, heart shapes are a popular way to symbolize a lifelong bond between spouses. Some families also choose a book or scroll shape to represent the chapters of a life or a deep love for literature and learning.

How do you personalize the inscription?

The carving on the stone is what turns a piece of granite into a personal tribute. There are several ways to apply text and imagery, each offering a different visual effect.

Custom hand carving

For a three dimensional look, hand carving is used to create raised or recessed flowers, religious symbols, or family crests. This adds a level of craftsmanship and texture that machines cannot replicate. It gives the monument a high end, artisanal feel.

Porcelain portraits

If you want a full color image of your loved one, we can embed a porcelain photo into the granite. These portraits are fired at extremely high temperatures to ensure the colors do not fade in the sun. It allows future generations to see the face of their ancestor clearly.

How to begin the design process?

Choosing a monument is a process that should not be rushed. It is an opportunity for your family to come together and decide how you want a legacy to be remembered.

Gather your ideas

Think about the symbols, hobbies, or quotes that defined your loved one. Do you want a traditional look or something modern? Looking through our gallery of previous work can help you narrow down the styles that resonate with you.

Consult with a specialist

Our team at JB Newall is here to guide you through the technical and emotional aspects of this decision. We provide scale drawings of the design so you can see exactly how the names and artwork will look on your chosen piece of granite before any carving begins.

Honoring a life with a granite monument is a final gift of love. By choosing the right material, color, and design, you are creating a permanent place of reflection that will remain standing long after we are gone.