A tombstone memorializes the life of someone who has passed away. If you’re designing one for a friend or family member, you have a variety of materials to choose from, and each can honor your loved one in a special way. Hirons Memorial Works has crafted beautiful tombstones in Mount Orab, OH, for more than 80 years, and they share some of your best options.

Pros & Cons of Tombstone Materials

Granite

Granite blends durability with affordability. It’s widely available and comes in several different colors. With granite, it’s easy to engrave custom designs, allowing you to personalize a headstone so it more accurately reflects your loved one’s personality. 

Limestone & Marble

In terms of overall composition, limestone and marble are very similar. Each material has been used for tombstones for hundreds of years, as they are durable, come in a variety of colors and patterns, and are easy to cut, etch, and engrave. Although they can fade over time, you can preserve the materials by cleaning them with ammonia.

Bronze

Bronze is slightly higher quality than granite, marble, or limestone. It is more expensive, as well, but you can reduce the cost by ordering a bronze headstone with a granite base, for example. Many people who choose this option are drawn to its timeless elegance and little need for maintenance.

It can be difficult to choose which material is best for a loved one’s tombstone. Speaking with experienced professionals will give you a better sense of your options. The compassionate staff at Hirons Memorial Works will happily answer any questions you may have. They offer a variety of materials and will work with you to design a memorial that both honors your loved one and fits within your budget. Visit them online to take a look at examples of their work, and call (888) 444-6356 to discuss your options.