Grave Ornament Ideas – How to choose the best grave ornament for your loved one

Adding ornaments to a memorial is a great way to showcase the personality and values of a person who has passed on. However, with so many grave decorations on offer, it can be hard to find the perfect addition. Read below to discover what you should consider in order to choose the best grave ornament for your loved one. 

Why do we decorate graves?  

Grave decoration allows individuals to express their grief, love, and respect, creating a personal tribute that reflects the person’s life, interests, and legacy. Flowers, ornaments, and mementoes can symbolise the connection shared and offer comfort to those grieving. The act of decorating a grave also serves as a means to keep the memory of their family or friend alive, providing a space for reflection and connection. It’s a tradition rooted in many cultures, helping people cope with loss and celebrate the life that once was.

What are the most popular grave ornaments? 

Grave ornaments are more about personal preference than they are about popularity. However, there are a few classic options that have remained popular choices throughout the years. These timeless ornaments include traditional items like vases, memorial statues, candle boxes, and religious symbols. Many families also opt for engraved or sandblasted designs rather than ornaments, which can be personalised with names, dates, and messages. Whatever your preference, grave decorations help to create a lasting tribute that reflects the personality and memory of your loved one while providing comfort to the bereaved.

Our Grave Ornaments

Oval Photo Frame
£104

Rose Ornament
£219

Octagonal Frame
£95

Dove of Peace Ornament
£119

View all memorials

What should you consider when choosing grave ornaments? 

When choosing decorations for your loved one’s grave, you’ll want to ensure that you are making the right choice. Here are some key considerations for choosing grave ornaments: 

Personal preference 

Consider personal preferences when choosing grave ornaments to ensure a meaningful tribute that truly reflects the individuality of your loved one. Whether it’s through specific symbols, colours, or themes that held significance in their life, these personal touches create a more intimate and heartfelt memorial. Tailoring the ornament to their tastes or hobbies also provides comfort, allowing those who visit to connect with the memory of their loved one in a more personal, lasting way.

Materials 

It’s good to consider the materials of the grave ornaments you choose. Materials can impact how long ornaments last, and whilst all ornaments will look great to begin with, certain materials will not withstand the weathering that happens at cemeteries. For example, plastic ornaments can be easily blown away or broken, leaving the grave and neighbouring plots covered in debris. Try to opt for more heavy-duty ornaments made of stone for meaningful grave decorations that stand the test of time. And don’t forget: for dainty, personal touches, you can use etchings and photoplaques to add longer-lasting detail to a memorial. 

Cost 

The cost of grave ornaments varies depending on the type of ornament you’re looking for. For example, stone and marble ornaments are typically more expensive than plastic or glass counterparts. However, it’s worth noting that these ornaments will last much longer and not need frequent replacing, saving money in the long run. However, memorials in general can be costly, so you can always choose to add more permanent ornaments at a later date. 

Cemetery rules 

Cemetery rules can affect which ornaments you can place on a grave. You must ensure that the ornaments you choose are compliant with regulations and maintain the appearance of the grounds. Many cemeteries have guidelines regarding the size, type, and placement of ornaments to prevent overcrowding, damage, or hazards. Adhering to these rules helps preserve the cemetery and ensures that your tribute remains respectful and unobtrusive. It also prevents the removal of ornaments that do not meet the cemetery’s standards. 

 Can anyone add ornaments to a grave? 

In most cases, anyone can add ornaments to a grave, but there are some important considerations. If the grave is in a public cemetery or burial ground, there may be rules and regulations regarding what can be placed where. Cemeteries often have guidelines to ensure that decorations are respectful, safe, and do not interfere with the grounds maintenance. For family plots or private cemeteries, the family members who own the plot typically have more freedom to choose and add ornaments as they see fit. If you’re not a family member, it’s best to get their approval and permission before adding any ornaments to a grave, or they could be removed.  

Grave decorations with Memorials of Distinction 

Grave ornaments are a meaningful addition to the resting place of your loved one. Whether you want to honour their memory with a meaningful symbol, design, or a reflection of their personality, ornaments can add a personal touch to their resting place. 

If you’d like to explore different grave ornament options and how to enhance a headstone, visit our grave decorations page for more information. For enquiries about specific ornaments or to receive a quote, contact us today, and we’ll be happy to assist you.