Is granite or marble better for a headstone?

Is granite or marble better for a headstone? We look at why is granite and marble used for headstones and which are the benefits of each.

Marble vs Granite Headstones

Memorials like headstones are used as a tribute to lost loved ones and signify where their grave is located outdoors in the cemetery.

Choosing the perfect headstone material is important to ensure the headstone lasts over time and through any severe weather. 

For headstones the most popular material is Granite, closely followed by Marble. Both these popular choices aren't weathered easily,  although Granite is known to be the most resilient. 

So, if you're trying to choose the right material continue reading. We break down the key differences between granite and marble as headstone materials.

Overview of granite and marble

Granite is the ideal choice for an outdoor grave marker, this igneous rock can withstand severe weather for over 1000 years, allowing your loved one to remain memorialised. 

Granite consists of various trace minerals including quartz, feldspar, mica and more. The popular material forms from magma present on the earth's crust slowly cooling, this natural process takes millions of years. 

Marble is another popular choice as a headstone material for your loved ones resting place. Marble is a metamorphic rock containing dolomite or calcite, meaning it arises from the transformation of existing rocks when put under high pressure and high temperatures. 

As Marble is formed from various rocks, the colours and patterns are unique, with higher-quality marble expressing the most beautiful patterns and colour palettes. 

Both of these excellent choices are mined from quarries and come in a range of colours or variations. Once removed from the quarry, rocks are transported to industrial facilities to be cut into slabs and sent around the world. 

At this point, stone fabricators will shape the granite and marble slabs into whatever design or shape was chosen. Cut slabs can be carved with lettering, intricate engravings or other designs that memorialise your lost loved one.

Why is Granite used for headstones?

Granite has the greatest durability of all headstone materials available, as an igneous rock, it allows little water to penetrate the surface, preventing it from being weathered easily. Not only this but it's a beautiful stone that comes in a range of colours including blue pearl, light grey, black and Bahama blue, each with varying differences. 

Granite can also be finished in several ways, from an all-side polish to honed, or matte. Professional Stonemasons can carve intricate engravings and lettering onto the Granite headstone with ease, providing a beautiful memorial for your loved one, that will remain for decades to come.

Why is Marble used for headstones?

Marble is often used as a grave marker owing to its exquisite appearance, and natural shine in any weather. Marble headstones are a popular choice; although they have poorer durability than Granite, Marble offers a unique look and definitive style that many choose for their loved one's memorial space. Marble headstones are less able to withstand rain, or even worse acid rain when compared to other rocks like Granite. To withstand severe weather and remain in good condition, Marble headstones require regular maintenance and proper care. Some cemeteries offer grave cleaning for this reason or give the memorial a clean each time you visit. 

Pros and cons of marble and granite headstones

Marble

Pros

• Marble stone is easy to cut and polish for a clean finish
  

• Marble has always been a popular material, signifying wealth and class. Various monuments have been built with this stone, including the world-famous Taj Mahal and many Greek statues like David By Michelangelo.
  

Cons

• Weathering over the years can make lettering illegible, and Intricate engravings can be lost without maintenance.
  

• Marble will develop cracks, chips and some discolouration owed to pollution and weathering.
  

Granite

Pros

• Granite has amazing durability and can withstand severe weather and pollution for many years without regular maintenance.
  

• Granite is the most popular choice for headstone materials and is seen in almost every cemetery.
  

Cons

• Although incredibly durable, Granite can be damaged by severe acid rain over extended periods. This weathering can be avoided with proper maintenance and care of the memorial of your loved one. 
  

Should I choose Granite or Marble for my headstone?

Every type of stone can be naturally weathered by physical processes and various chemicals, like acid rain. Granite is the most durable option, with intricate engraving and lettering remaining legible over extended periods, allowing your loved ones' memory to last for generations to come. It's also available in a range of variations. 

Another popular choice is Marble, this unique rock stands out in the cemetery with its shining white appearance. Marble is weathered more easily, and it can begin to develop cracks after severe weather, such as acid rain. High contrast lettering is best on Marble headstones to ensure it remains legible for many years, especially if your loved one's memorial is located outdoors. Regular maintenance enables Marble to withstand rain much better, some cemeteries even offer grave cleaning. 

If you're focused on the intricate engravings and lettering being legible for several years, the Granite is a good choice. However, choosing the perfect material for a loved one memorial is a personal choice, and various factors should be considered. If you're still unsure of the right material for your loved one's headstone, contact our friendly team at Memorials For You.