Standard Shapes

While many variations exist, common monuments can be classified into one of four major groupings.

Upright Monuments - Typically, these consist of 2 main pieces. The upright portion (called a die or tablet) and the bottom portion (called a base). Flower vases are a common option and can be added on one or both ends.

Slant Monuments - A slant monument has a steeply angled face but the back is perpendicular. The top of the slant is much thinner than the bottom. Slants may be used by themselves, or they may be placed on a base. Two major sub-categories exist, the traditional style has a front nosing and western style does not.

Bevel Markers - Bevels, also called Pillow or Hickey Markers, are very simple memorials. The most common style, which is shown here, has a straight angled top surface. The back is generally 2 inches taller than the front.

Grass Markers - Grass markers, also known as Flat or Flush markers, derive the name from the fact that they are normally installed into the ground, with only the top face showing. They are the simplest form of granite memorial and they are typically all straight without angled surfaces.