Frequently Asked Questions

The time it takes to get a granite monument can vary depending on a few factors, such as the complexity of the design, the size of the monument, and the availability of materials. Reflection Stones typically take two weeks. In-Stock memorials typically take around eight to twelve weeks to complete. Ordered domestic or overseas granites typically take from 10 weeks to 52 weeks, depending on the quarrier. Covid has definitely had a negative impact on all supply chain issues and predictable scheduling.

The process of getting a granite monument typically involves several steps, including selecting the design, choosing the granite color and finish, designing and proofing the artwork, cutting and shaping the granite, carving the lettering and design, and finally installing the monument. Each step requires time and precision, which can affect the overall timeline.

It is important to note that the process can take longer if there are any delays in the approval of artwork or any unforeseen circumstances that arise during the fabrication process. Therefore, it is best to plan ahead and give ample time for the fabrication and installation of the monument. It’s best to consult with a professional in the memorial industry for a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs and preferences.

Selecting and purchasing a granite memorial is an important decision. Before you finalize your choice, you’ll need to know the following pieces of information:

Cemetery regulations: Most cemeteries have regulations governing the size, design, and materials used for memorials. Before choosing a memorial, be sure to review the cemetery’s regulations to ensure that your chosen design is allowed. The size, location, and number of burial plots you own are important factors as well. The cemetery will also need to know if you plan on using traditional or cremation burial.

Budget: What is your general budget range for your granite memorial purchase? Cemetery memorials can vary greatly in price, it’s important to establish a budget before beginning your search. Be sure to factor in the cost of the memorial as well as any additional fees associated with installation and maintenance.

Personal information: Spelling of names, birth and death dates, anniversary dates, children’s names, epitaphs, and inscriptions should be considered ahead of meeting with a memorial professional. Carefully consider the wording of any inscriptions on your memorial, and double (or even triple) check the spelling and accuracy of all names, words, dates, etc.

Design: While you don’t need to come to your first meeting with a memorial company with a complete vision for your memorial design, it is important to have a general idea of what you might want. Cemetery memorials come in a wide variety of designs, so it may be worthwhile to browse various styles before your initial meeting to get a baseline understanding of your options. You may also want to consider the preferences and personality of the person being memorialized when choosing a design.

Material: Cemetery memorials can be made from a variety of materials including granite, marble, bronze, and more. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks in terms of durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. It’s best to consult with a professional in the memorial industry for a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs and preferences.

Adding another date to an existing granite memorial is called “final dating” or “additional engraving”. This process involves the following steps:

Contact the monument company or cemetery where the granite memorial is located to inquire about their final dating process and requirements. They will likely provide you with a form to fill out with the final date and any other information you would like engraved.

A photo and rubbing of the existing memorial is helpful so that the company can match the font style and size for the final date and any additional text you want to include. The monument company or cemetery may have specific guidelines or limitations regarding font styles and sizes. The location of the memorial in the cemetery is also critical for the engraver to find the memorial.

The monument company or cemetery will then create a stencil or template of the final date and any additional text, which will be used to guide the engraving process. A skilled engraver will use a portable sandblast generator to carefully etch the final date and any additional text onto the granite memorial. This process can take several hours or even days, depending on the complexity of the engraving. Once the engraving is complete, the monument company will notify you that the work has been completed.

It’s important to note that the cost of adding a final date to an existing granite memorial can vary depending on the size and complexity of the engraving, as well as any additional fees charged by the monument company or cemetery.

The amount of lettering and design work that can be included on a granite memorial depends on several factors, including the size and shape of the memorial, the color of the granite, the available space for inscription, the complexity of the design, and any specific requirements or restrictions set by the cemetery or other governing authority. In general, most granite memorials can accommodate a significant amount of lettering and design work. However, it’s important to note that some cemeteries may have specific regulations on the amount of lettering and design work that is allowed on a memorial, so it’s always best to consult with the cemetery or monument company to ensure that your design meets their requirements.

Dark-colored granites allow for greater contrast. Fine-grained granites provide greater contrast than course-grained granites. In general, the greater the contrast, the more lettering and design flexibility are available to you.

In terms of design work, many granite memorials can accommodate a wide range of custom designs, such as religious symbols, floral patterns, or even photographic images. Ultimately, the amount of lettering and design work that can be included on a granite memorial will depend on a variety of factors, and it’s always best to consult with a professional monument company or cemetery for guidance on design and inscription options.

Telling the story of your loved one on their memorial can be a meaningful and rewarding way to honor and remember them. The most important elements of telling their story may vary depending on your loved one’s personality, interests, and achievements, as well as the tone and style of the memorial. However, some common elements that you may want to consider including are:

Personal background: Details about your loved one’s upbringing, family, and childhood.

Significant life events: Important milestones in your loved one’s life, such as their education, career, marriage, and children.

Achievements and contributions: Your loved one’s accomplishments, talents, and interests, as well as any contributions they made to their community or society.

Character and personality: Your loved one’s unique personality traits, values, and beliefs.

Relationships: Stories and memories about your loved one’s relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, as well as any special connections they had with others.

Legacy: The greater impact your loved one had on the people and world around them, as well as how they will be remembered.

Ultimately, the most important element of telling your loved one’s story on their memorial is to capture the essence of who they were and what they meant to those who knew and loved them. Your options are endless; the only limit is your imagination. Our professional staff can help guide you through the process. Downloading our free Story Guide is a great first step in helping you organize your thoughts, reflect on your loved one, and remember the most important elements of their story.

Pre-planning a memorial is an important and meaningful way to alleviate the burden of memorial planning on your spouse, children and family members after your passing. Pre-planning your own memorial can help reduce emotional stress, financial burden, emotional overspending, and potential family conflict during an already difficult time for your loved ones. It can also provide personal peace of mind that your wishes for your memorial will be carried out exactly as you want, including any personalization or specific memorial service choices, traditions, or customs you’d like included.