How to Choose the Right Monument Material

Headstones are broadly categorized into marble, granite, limestone, basalt, and more, with grades ranging from A to D based on the stone's quality. Requirements for headstones vary by region, leading to diverse choices. Below, we will analyze the key factors to consider when selecting headstone materials:

1. Choose tombstones from the stone category. Different stone varieties vary in color, hardness, water absorption rate, and usage environment. Some varieties of marble, with pure colors and no patterns, are suitable for tombstones, with Hanbaiyu being a common choice. Limestone's bluestone is also a popular material for tombstones; its softness allows for intricate carvings. Currently, granite is the most commonly used stone for tombstones in China, with black granite, Zhangqiu black, sesame gray, and other black or bluish-gray stones being popular choices. Granite is known for its high hardness, good luster after polishing, and longer lifespan.

2. Choose tombstones based on the grade of stone. In the stone industry, different qualities of the same stone are categorized; A-grade is the best, followed by decreasing quality. Tombstones require polishing and inscriptions, which demands a more uniform surface color for the stone, such as pure black, white, or deep gray. The stone should be free of defects like stone lines or slabs, as these would be akin to a blank page with pencil marks. Therefore, when selecting stone for tombstones, A-grade stone is often chosen, despite its higher cost, for its superior appearance.