How to Make Granite Headstones

Granite gravestones are a lasting memorial to departed loved ones.

Granite is one of Earth's hardest natural materials. It formed hundreds of millions of years ago from molten lava from the Earth's core. As the granite cooled, the lava settled into what is today known as granite quarries. Granite is a durable, long-lasting stone. Since the early 19th century, the memorial industry has used granite for headstones. It is a good choice for creating long-lasting memorials to loved ones.

Instructions

1. Drill, blast and saw large blocks of granite out of quarries. Transport the blocks to factories.

2. Use automated polishers and saws to clean, polish and shape the stone. Cut the stone into various sized headstones.

3. Polish the surface of the headstone. Prep the surface for engraving.

4. Apply an adhesive-backed rubber stencil to the surface of the headstone. Use a computerized stencil cutting machine to cut the design and lettering out of the stencil.

5. Remove the sections of stencil from the area to be engraved. Place the headstone in a special sandblasting room for the final carving.

6. Use a high-pressure air hose to trace the stencil into the headstone. Special sand is forced through a nozzle at the tip of the hose and carves out the design and lettering. The remaining area is well protected.

7. Fill in the carved areas with black. The lettering will stand out against the headstone.

8. Remove the uncut portion of the stencil from the headstone and put the finishing touches on it. Prepare the headstone for shipping and delivery.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the cemetery requirements before ordering a headstone. Cemeteries have specific rules and regulations governing the size, material and type of headstone.

• Purchase your headstone from a monument supplier. You can also purchase your headstone online from a supplier.

• Personalize the headstone. Choose a design that reflects the personality or interest of the deceased. A monument supplier can help you with this as part of its service.

References

• Granite Headstones: Designed to Outlast Time
• CSI: Headstone Experts
• EverLife Memorials: The Making of Granite Headstones

Resources

• Grave Markers and Headstones