Marble vs Granite: A Comparison of Two Popular Headstone Materials

Headstones are a highly personal memorial tribute to someone special in your life. When your loved one passes, it is natural to want to ensure that the headstone you use to commemorate their passing is unique, beautiful, and reflective of the depth of feeling you have for them.

There can be an overwhelming amount of decisions to be made at this difficult time, and stress can easily creep into the decision-making process. When it comes to the headstone, there are certainly many different variations to consider, and it is a very personal choice.

As the headstone will serve as a lasting tribute and function as a visiting place for future generations, choosing a durable, aesthetically pleasing material that can withstand the test of time is essential. Marble and granite have been used for centuries to create headstones and continue to endure as two of the most popular choices.

This article will compare marble headstones and granite headstones, examining their durability, appearance, maintenance, and cost differences. Here you can learn a little about each material to help you make an informed decision and ensure that your loved one’s headstone will be a lasting memorial that you will be proud to visit.

Marble vs Granite

Composition

Marble is primarily made up of dolomite, or calcite, and it is what is called a metamorphic rock. Whereas Granite is an igneous rock that forms when magma from volcanic activity cools, granite is composed of mica, quartz and feldspar.

So when it comes to making a choice for headstones, which is preferable, a marble headstone or a granite headstone? What are the pros and cons of using either of these materials? Read on to explore some factors that may help you decide what is right for you.

Durability

Choosing a granite headstone over a marble headstone will ensure that your headstone is better able to withstand climate conditions. Granite can stand harsh outdoor conditions better for longer periods of time. A granite headstone will also be less likely to chip, scratch or crack than a marble headstone.

Polish

If you are looking for a headstone with a high polish, a marble headstone may be the better choice. Marble can be polished to a high gloss finish, making it look impressively elegant. While a granite headstone can also be polished, it usually presents with a more subtle shine.

Stain Resistance

Marble is a porous material that can easily absorb moisture and may be more susceptible to the elements. Granite headstones are far less prone to staining as the rock is nowhere near as porous. Choosing a headstone with a polish finish will make it less susceptible to staining.

Aesthetic History

Historically marble has been used in sculptures and high-end architecture. From an aesthetic point of view, a marble headstone is perhaps the more artistic choice. Solid granite headstones have durability and versatility on their side – and they still look good – it likely comes down to personal preference.

Maintenance

While you may want to visit your loved one frequently at their resting place, you don’t want to spend that precious time maintaining the headstone. A polished granite headstone is extremely low maintenance – a marble headstone will need a little more care and regular maintenance.

Appearance

Marble headstones are able to be ordered in a variety of colours; you can choose classic white, opt for black – or order a cultured marble headstone in pretty much any colour.

Marble is a softer, more traditional, classic choice, whereas grey granite and black granite are more masculine in appearance and evoke a bolder, more striking contemporary feel.

Get in Touch

While the ideal choice of a headstone is a deeply personal moment, it sometimes helps to talk these choices through – especially at such a difficult time.

At Sanctuary Memorials, we are always here to answer your questions regarding the best custom affordable headstone design to select as a fitting tribute to your loved one.

Get in touch now to chat through your options with our warm and understanding staff.