A headstone is also known as a tombstone, gravestone, or cornerstone. Simply put, it is a slab placed at the head of a grave. It is inscribed with details like the name, date of birth, and date of death of the grave it marks.

Moreover, at times, similar details about other relatives are added in the same headstone or gravestone signifying the passing of the complete family over decades to memorialize and mourn the dead.

Furthermore, some headstones feature epitaphs to honor the departed loved one. Quotes and sayings from religious scriptures, too, may be inscribed on the stone or slab.

As the inscription reflects the existence of an individual, you may consider including bible verses, virtuous qualities and accomplishments of the deceased in the epitaph as a means to give respect to him or her.

Nowadays, a framed photograph of the deceased can also be engraved a headstone. Plus, you can choose an appropriate symbol or emblem like butterfly, book, angels, maple leaf, rose, dove, cross, six-pointed star, praying hands, conch shell, ivy, horse shoe, arrow, rosary, etc.

Coming to the materials, bronze and granite headstones are quite popular these days as they are durable and easy to maintain.

Some bronze headstones may be available with a bronze flower vase as well. In addition, the headstone can be rectangular, round, or semi-circular.

Certain cemeteries have some specifications about aspects like the headstone size, type, color, and even symbols that they allow. Thus, it is suggested to check the requirements with your cemetery before ordering a headstone.

You can buy headstones from cemeteries, monument dealers, or online memorial stores. The last option is the most affordable and convenient.

In case a loved one is to be cremated, and the cremation ashes are to be placed in a columbarium, consider getting a commemorative plaque or wall marker to help you pay a tribute to the departed loved one.

Inspirational Quotes and Bible Verses for Headstones

“Let no one weep for me or celebrate my funeral with mourning, for I still live as I pass to and fro through the mouths of men.”
– Quintus Ennius

“A death is not the extinguishing of a light, but the putting out of the lamp because the dawn has come.
Life is given to us, we earn it by giving it.
Let the dead have the immortality of fame,
but the living the immortality of love.”
– Rabindranath Tagore

“They that love beyond the world cannot be separated by it. Death cannot kill what never dies.”
– William Penn

“May the Irish hills caress you, may her lakes and rivers bless you.
May the luck of the Irish enfold you
And may the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.”
– St. Patrick Blessing

 “They can no longer die; for they are like the angels. They are God’s children, since they are children of the resurrection.”
– Luke 20:36

“For You have been my help and in
the shadow of Your wings I sing
for Joy. My soul clings to You;
Your right hand upholds me.”
– Psalm 62:7-8