One of the most popular ways to honor a loved one who has died away is to have a headstone or gravestone erected at their grave. But how do the two differ from one another? Do they differ from one another or are they the same thing?
While both headstones and tombstones are varieties of burial markers, their size and shape vary. A tombstone is larger and lies flat on the ground, whereas a headstone is often smaller and more erect. While tombstones may be positioned at either end of the burial, headstones are frequently put at the head.
The two’s cultural affiliation is another distinction. While tombstones are more frequently used in Jewish burials, headstones are more frequently utilized in Christian burials. These distinctions, however, are not always inflexible, and families are free to select the marker type that they find most appealing.
One crucial aspect to think about while buying a headstone or tombstone is the price. In general, flat burial markers like tombstones cost less than upright headstones. A basic flat grave marker can cost anywhere from $150 to $1,000, though costs might vary based on the size and substance of the marker.
So, how are these structures made? Granite is a resilient and long-lasting material that can survive severe weather, and is the material of choice for the majority of headstones and tombstones. A granite slab is carved using specialized tools into the required size and shape to make a granite monument. After polishing the surface to provide a smooth finish, any inscriptions or designs are sandblasted into the stone to permanently etch them there.
Due to their longevity and ease of upkeep, granite monuments have grown in popularity recently. Additionally, they can be personalized with a range of patterns, hues, and forms to provide a one-of-a-kind monument.
But from where did tombstones come? Grave markers have been used for centuries; the first ones were discovered in Egypt circa 3,000 BC. The sculptures and hieroglyphs on these monuments were frequently detailed and enormous.
During the Middle Ages, headstones were used more often in Europe, and Christian symbols and inscriptions were a regular addition. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that Jewish communities in Europe and America started using tombstones on a regular basis.
Finally, although though headstones and tombstones have many similarities, they differ from one another in terms of size, shape, cultural significance, and price. Granite, a strong and versatile stone, can be used to create both kinds of markers. Although grave markers have been used for thousands of years, using headstones and tombstones has developed with time and now plays a significant role in contemporary funeral customs.
Granite is generally used to make headstones because it is the most durable material. Granite is a solid, long-lasting material that can survive extreme weather and is unaffected by erosion or stains. Additionally, because it requires little upkeep, it is a common material for headstones.
The length of time it takes to build a headstone is not specifically addressed in the article because it might vary depending on the design, the materials used, and the accessibility of the stone and engraving services. It does, however, give a general overview of the procedures involved in making a headstone and the aspects to take into account when choosing one. The timing for making a headstone will ultimately depend on the particular circumstances and demands of the person or family commissioning it.