What is the best material for a headstone

Headstones are meaningful and lasting memorials to honour and remember someone who is no longer with us, marking their resting place and preserving their identity. They offer a tangible connection for loved ones, providing a space for reflection, remembrance, and closure. With so many options available, narrowing down which headstone material is the right choice for your loved one can be difficult. From classic colours to iridescent flecks, there’s something to match every style and taste. Read on to find out more about the different types of headstone materials. 

What are the different types of headstone materials? 

When it comes to choosing a headstone, there are many materials, finishes and designs for you to choose from. The most popular material options include granite, marble, limestone, and slate. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important that you choose a material that not only creates a beautiful memorial for your family, but also one that you can maintain.

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Different styles of granite headstones

Granite is a versatile and long-lasting material that offers multiple beautiful finish options. With traditional black and grey options, to stunning blue and red alternatives, you can choose a headstone that perfectly represents your loved one. Granite headstones are also a popular option due to their durability and classic look. Unlike other stone options, granite is weather resistant and is well suited for other memorial design work, such as carvings or etchings.  

Bahama blue granite headstone

Named after the ocean waves in the Bahamas, this granite features swirls of blue and grey, often incorporating flecks of crystals for a subtle sparkle. Bahama blue granite options work especially well alongside darker granite insert panels, which create a vibrant contrast perfect for lighter painted lettering or etchings. 

Blue pearl granite headstone

For a darker, yet equally stunning aesthetic, blue pearl granite is an excellent option. Featuring black and blue mottling and a fine pearlescent shimmer, blue pearl granite is a stylish and highly durable choice. 

Paradiso granite headstone

Paradiso granite combines the classic black aesthetic with veins of pin, black and grey to create a unique finish. The veins of colour throughout the stone form an understated design that is durable and easy to maintain. 

Grey granite headstone

Traditionally and consistently popular options, grey granite or dark grey granite headstones are natural materials, offering small hints of metallic grey that shine in the light. Demure and tasteful, grey granite headstones are understated, providing the perfect backdrop for other memorial decorations, such as photo plaques and etchings.  

Emerald pearl granite headstone

Rich in colour with eye-catching highlights, emerald pearl granite merges subtle hues of emerald green with large flecks of silver. Choose a polished finish to highlight the pearlescent shine and deep colours of emerald pearl granite headstones. 

Ruby red granite headstone

With a deep, rich colour, ruby red granite (sometimes known as imperial red granite) is a sophisticated, contemporary option. Popular not only for its statement style, ruby red granite is a fantastic headstone material, as it’s naturally resistant to corrosion, water absorption and stains. 

White marble headstones

White marble is equally popular to granite for memorials and headstones. With a striking natural appearance, white marble creates a sophisticated look that is sure to stand out. The bright white colour stands out amongst the more muted tones of a cemetery or burial place, whilst the subtle veins of black, grey and blue give every headstone a unique finish. 

Marble headstones can be more difficult to maintain than granite headstones, as they are more susceptible to weathering and the white colour can make stains or dirt more noticeable. However, the effect white marble offers ensures that, even with a higher level of maintenance, white marble headstones remain much desired. 

Is marble or granite better for headstones?

Marble and granite are both fantastic options for headstones, each offering their own colour options and aesthetic appeal. Granite is easy to maintain and requires less maintenance, so could be worth considering if you and your family are unable to frequently make it to the grave site. Similarly, marble can be more susceptible to weathering and get more noticeably dirty (particularly when choosing lighter stone options). Ultimately, you should choose the headstone material which resonates with you and your loved ones the most, as well as checking the regulations your local churchyard or cemetery may have.

Slate headstones

Slate is another popular material for headstones. Highly durable, it offers an attractive finish that can support intricate carvings. However, slate headstones are a very expensive option that can be difficult to source. With stunning and durable colour and style options available in other stones, many families decide to save money without compromising on style. 

Limestone headstones

Limestone is also a common choice for headstones, recognised for its timeless look and natural beauty. Both durable and versatile, limestone is often lighter in colour, with grey flecked Nabresina limestone being a particularly popular choice. Despite its many positive attributes, limestone headstones are an exceedingly costly investment, and as such many families choose to opt for a more affordable, yet equally beautiful option. 

At Memorials of Distinction, we offer a range of  headstone materials, finishes and decorations so that you can find the perfect match for your family. Request a brochure to take a look at our full catalogue, or contact us to speak to one of our experts.