For millennia, headstones have served to mark and honor the graves of our loved ones. From stone to wood to granite, the evolution of headstone materials offers a fascinating glimpse into human culture, technology, and artistic expression.
While the choice of materials for memorials has varied widely over time, granite and marble have emerged as the most popular options in recent decades.
Continue reading to explore the differences between granite and marble headstones and discover why granite has become the preferred material for modern memorials.
The earliest headstones, originating from ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations, were often stone slabs known as stelae or steles used to mark graves. During the medieval period, headstones were typically crafted from wood or simple, uncarved stones.
With the advent of the Renaissance, a renewed interest in classical art and architecture led to marble becoming a favored material for headstones. This period saw an increased emphasis on artistic expression and refinement.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, headstone materials diversified to include marble, granite, sandstone, and slate. The Neoclassical and Victorian eras also left their mark, resulting in elaborate and ornate monuments adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Since the 20th century, granite has become the preferred choice for headstones, celebrated for its durability and versatility in customization.
Although marble was once a favored material for headstones, granite has become the preferred choice for designing memorials due to several key differences:
Granite headstones is renowned for its exceptional durability and resilience. Over 1,000 years, granite typically deteriorates by less than 1/1,000th of an inch, and it is highly resistant to chipping, cracking, and weathering. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor use in any climate.
In contrast, marble is softer and less durable. It is more susceptible to damage from environmental factors such as acid rain, temperature fluctuations, and pollution. This can lead to faster wear and deterioration compared to granite.
Granite is relatively low-maintenance. It is less porous than marble, which means it is less likely to stain or absorb moisture. Routine cleaning and sealing can help maintain its appearance over time.
Marble is more porous than granite, making it more prone to staining, etching, and discoloration. It requires more frequent cleaning, sealing and restoration to preserve its appearance.
Granite is often more affordable than marble, making it a popular choice for families with budget considerations. For a detailed breakdown of factors affecting headstone prices, refer to our Memorial Cost Guide.
Marble, with its luxurious appearance and higher maintenance requirements, generally comes at a higher cost.
Marble headstones are typically available in classic colors such as white and black. While other shades like cream, red, brown, pink, yellow, green, and grey do exist, they are less common and often unsuitable for outdoor use due to their porosity and susceptibility to environmental damage.
Granite, formed from the natural fusion of molten rock, offers a wide range of colors depending on its geographical origin. Granite headstone colors vary based on their source, which includes regions like North America, South America, Asia, India, Europe, and other global locations. Below are some of the most popular granite color options available at Milano Monuments.
Headstone material is just one of the many factors that impact the final look of your loved one’s memorial. To explore all of the design elements that go into a headstone, Contact us.
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