Choosing the Right Stone for a Lasting Tribute
The material you choose plays a meaningful role in how the memorial looks, feels, and stands the test of time. However, it also has other implications including how the stone can then be lettered- and some stone types are only permitted in certain settings. On this page, we guide you through the main types of stone, their qualities, and how your choice affects the other decisions you can make.
Granite
The hardest and most varied of stones, granite comes in many different colour combinations, helping provide a truly distinctive memorial
Slate
Black-grey or green in colour, depending on the type, slate is particularly suitable for handcut designs and ornaments which provide a striking contrast once inscribed
Portland and York
The two best-known and most readily available of the Limestone family, these stones are often thought to be a middle ground between granite and slate
Light Nabresina
Another Limestone material, its cream colour and integral shells give it a striking, natural appearance
Horsham Stone
Quarried locally in West Sussex, Horsham Stone’s distinctive honey colour and riven face can help with the creation of a memorial that is definitely one-of-a kind
Marble
The traditional material for headstones, but its use requires careful consideration due to weathering
Still not sure what stone is best?
Our team is here to help.
The decision about the choice of material for a memorial is one of the most fundamental you can make, not only because of how it affects the appearance but also because of the other options it can open up or restrict. Please do contact us for more information and guidance on how to make the best choice for you.
Very impressed you rejected the original stone as sub-standard and ordered a replacement without any comments from me.
Very happy with the stone priovided, Gumbrills managed to follow my instructions perfectly for which I am very grateful.
It was good for me to be able to visit the stonecutters workshop to see work in progress, I’m very impressed with the results.