Plain-English buying guides from Memory Stones on headstones, cemetery rules, Veteran benefits, cremation memorials, engraving and stone care, each backed by official sources.
An in-stock headstone is a finished granite memorial you can see before you reserve it. A custom headstone is designed and made to order. Here is how to choose.
Read the guideEvery guide opens with a short answer, cites official sources such as the VA, FTC, NFDA, USGS and National Park Service, and is reviewed by our founder.
Every cemetery, and often every section, sets its own marker rules. This checklist covers what to confirm in writing before you buy.
Read guide
Upright headstones stand on a base, bevel markers sit low with a slanted top and flat markers lie level with the grass. Here is how they differ.
Read guide
A flower saddle is a frame that holds a floral arrangement on top of an upright headstone. Here is how to put one together and when cemeteries allow it.
Read guide
Clean water, a soft brush and a stone-safe biological cleaner are all most granite headstones need. Here is the step-by-step method the VA uses.
Read guide
The VA provides headstones, markers and medallions to eligible Veterans at no charge. Here is who qualifies, which form to use and how a private headstone fits in.
Read guide
A companion headstone honors two people on one stone. Here is how to plan the plot, the inscription and the date that will be added later.
Read guide
Names, dates, an epitaph and perhaps a symbol. Here is how to decide what goes on the stone, keep it readable and approve a proof you will be happy with for generations.
Read guide
Cremation is now the choice for most American families. Here are the permanent memorial options, from a columbarium niche to a granite urn or a headstone over an urn plot.
Read guide
Marble is beautiful but soft and dissolves slowly in acid rain. Granite is harder and far more resistant. Here is what the science says and how to choose.
Read guideStill have questions?
Our Family of Brands
Each brand serves a distinct segment of the memorial market. Explore every brand's own website below.
Full-service support for cemeteries and families - installation, leveling, restoration, engraving updates, and long-term care.
A B2B platform for cemeteries, funeral homes, and distributors - standardized SKUs, custom projects, and scalable production.
Columbariums, niche walls, mausolea, and architectural memorials - crafted from stone, bronze, and glass for cemeteries and public spaces.
Art-level bronze plaques, nameplates, statues, and memorial accessories. Designed to complement stone memorials or stand alone as lasting tributes.
Custom-designed premium headstones with advanced shapes, finishes, and materials. We manage the entire process - from concept and approvals to cemetery compliance and installation.
Affordable grave markers and headstones with honest pricing and clear options - ideal for families seeking simplicity without compromise.
Thoughtfully designed headstones with transparent pricing and guided support at every step - from design to cemetery approval.
Custom granite headstones, monuments, and memorial benches - designed, engraved, and delivered to cemeteries nationwide with generations of craftsmanship.
