Buyer’s Guide to Headstones & Markers

Headstones are an essential part of the grieving process for many families. They create an eternal tribute for loved ones that stand the test of time, a sacred space and a place of remembrance for generations to come! But when it comes to choosing the right headstone it can be an overwhelming task, especially when you’re not familiar with the process. In this blog, we give you a guide about what you need to know so you can create a memorial headstone that truly honours your cherished one. So let’s get stuck in!

Types of Headstones

There are different types of headstones each with it’s own pros and cons. The most common types of headstones in NZ are:

Granite Headstones: Are one of the most popular type of headstones. It’s popular because it’s durable, affordable and easy to maintain. Granite headstones come in a range of colours and finishes, from polished to honed, and can be customised with a variety of designs and lettering.

Marble Headstones: Marble is a traditional material used for headstones. It’s another popular choice because of its natural beauty and elegant appearance. But here’s the deal, marble requires a bit more maintenance and is more delicate than granite. 

Considerations To Make

When choosing a headstone, there are many factors you have to consider. However, let’s touch on a few:

Cemetery Regulations: Different cemeteries have different regulations regarding the size, shape, and materials of headstones. It’s a good idea to check that the design you choose complies with the regulations of the chosen cemetery. 

Material: While marble and granite are the top runners for headstones, they have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. When making a final selection, consider your budget, the maintenance needed, and the overall aesthetics.

Design and Inscription: There is a range of customisations you can get when it comes to headstone designs and wordings. You have to consider what inscription and design elements would best honour your loved one’s memory.

Budget: Headstones prices in NZ can vary greatly, depending on the material, size, and design. It could be a good idea to have a fair budget in mind before you set out to look for a headstone that honours loved one’s memory to ensure that you keep within that limit. 

Working with a Headstone Provider

Once you have chosen a headstone, it’s important to work with a reputable provider to ensure that it is installed correctly and meets all cemetery regulations. When choosing a provider some things you should look into are: 

Reputation and Experience: Look for a provider with not only a good reputation, but also experience in the industry, particularly with installing headstones in the specific cemetery where your loved one will be buried. 

Customisation Options & Pricing: Look for a provider that offers a range of customisation options, including different materials, designs, and lettering. Getting a quote to ensure that you are getting a fair price for the headstone and installation is a must! And lastly, someone who is easy to work with that will make the process for you and your family seamless and stress free!  

At Sanctuary Memorials we have been creating high-quality Granite and Marble headstones in Auckland since 2011 . We have over 20 years of experience in the industry and would love to work with you to help you choose the right headstone that honours your loved one’s memory.  Contact our friendly team today!