Granite Headstones: How are they made?

Granite Headstones: How are they made?

Many years ago, crafting a memorial from granite was a labor-intensive process. However, with advancements in technology and motorized tools, monument builders now create detailed monuments efficiently. A memorial represents the last impression of the deceased and often shares a piece of their life's story, playing a vital role in the grieving process. Granite, being the hardest stone, is a popular choice for headstones due to its durability, beauty, and variety of colors. Each granite slab features unique designs and patterns, making every monument truly one-of-a-kind.

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Granite into a Monument Slab

Granite first gained popularity for headstones in the mid-1800s. The creation of a granite monument starts at a quarry, where slabs are extracted using a pneumatic drill. These slabs are then transported to a manufacturer, where they are cut into smaller blocks using a rotary diamond saw and subsequently polished with water and aluminum or tin oxide powder.

Fun Fact: When granite is polished, it naturally darkens, revealing its original lighter color if scratched.

The polish applied to the granite ensures longevity by protecting the stone from damage and environmental elements. The stone is then cut to the desired shape, with the edges optionally rock pitched by hand using a chisel. However, the engraved area must remain polished. Once polished and cut into the chosen shape, the granite is delivered to the monument company.

Selecting the Monument Design

Before carving and engraving, a design must be rendered. Previously done by hand, designs are now commonly created using computer software for an accurate, to-scale representation. This includes placements of carvings, symbols, images, and inscriptions.

Engraving the Granite Headstone

After client approval of the final design, it is converted into a rubber stencil with an adhesive backing. The design is cut out using a machine or X-Acto knife. When attached to the granite, only the designed areas remain visible for engraving, with the rest of the granite protected by the rubber stencil. Engraving techniques include sandblasting, laser etching, diamond etching, and shadow shaping.

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After engraving, the monument is inspected for accuracy and thoroughly cleaned before being packed and delivered to the cemetery for installation. Despite advancements in technology, crafting monuments remains a meticulous process requiring time and dedication. Modern tools allow for intricate, personalized designs that pay tribute to the deceased.

Need a burial monument or headstone for your loved one? With over 40 years of experience, Columbia Gardens Memorials is a premier choice for unique memorials in the greater Washington D.C. area. Our skilled artisans offer on-site engraving services for additional information on existing headstones. Call 703-527-7774 or email todd@cgmemorials.com to speak with a staff member today!

A history of headstones and granite

Granite has been the material of choice for Robinson Memorials for over 70 years, providing long-lasting tributes for Northland families.

Known for its natural beauty, versatility, and durability, granite is an affordable, hard-wearing stone, resistant to environmental extremes. It comes in various colors and can be intricately carved with epitaphs.

Gravestones date back to between 3000 and 4000 BC, initially marking grave boundaries and preventing bodies from surfacing. Burial plots close to family homes were marked with large boulders or stone piles, featuring surface markings with the deceased's name, age, and date of death.

The terms tombstone and gravestone originally referred to different items. A tombstone described the stone lid of a coffin, while a gravestone marked a gravesite.

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