What is granite and why is it used for memorials?
Granite is a natural stone valued for its durability, resistance to weathering, and ability to hold detailed sandblasted designs. It is one of the most commonly used materials for cemetery memorials.
Will all granite look exactly the same?
No. Because granite is a natural material, variations in color, grain, shading, and surface characteristics are normal and should be expected from piece to piece.
What are common granite memorial shapes?
Granite memorials are available in several standard shapes, often referred to by different names within the industry:
Terminology may vary by region, and Granite City Stone can assist with identifying the appropriate shape for your needs.
Does granite require maintenance?
Granite requires minimal maintenance and holds up well in outdoor environments when properly installed.
What finishes are available on granite memorials?
Granite memorials may be produced with a variety of surface finishes, depending on the intended appearance and function:
Different finishes may be combined on the same memorial for both aesthetic and functional purposes.
How are granite memorial sizes written?
Granite memorial dimensions are typically expressed in feet and inches using a standard three-part format:
Length × Width × Height
This format is used for all memorial types, regardless of orientation.
Upright Monuments (Dies)
For upright monuments, width refers to the front-to-back measurement, and height refers to the vertical measurement.
Example:
A serpentine-top upright monument (die) measuring 36 inches long × 6 inches wide × 24 inches tall would be written as:
3-0 × 0-6 × 2-0
(3 ft 0 in × 0 ft 6 in × 2 ft 0 in)
Flat (Grass) Markers
For flat markers, the stone is set horizontally. In this case, width refers to the face dimension, and height refers to the stone’s thickness.
Example:
A flat marker measuring 24 inches long × 12 inches wide × 4 inches thick would be written as:
2-0 × 1-0 × 0-4
(2 ft 0 in × 1 ft 0 in × 0 ft 4 in)
Does the order of dimensions matter?
Yes. Dimensions are always listed as length first, width second, and height last, unless otherwise specified.
Can Granite City Stone help verify sizing?
Yes. Granite City Stone can assist customers in confirming proper sizing based on memorial type, cemetery requirements, and intended application.
Dimensions shown are nominal and may vary slightly due to finishing and natural stone characteristics.
How is lettering added to granite memorials?
Lettering and designs are typically sandblasted into the granite using stencils and abrasive media.
Can designs and lettering be customized?
Yes. Memorials may be supplied blank, pre-designed, or custom sandblasted depending on customer needs.
What should be reviewed before production begins?
When proofs are provided, customers are responsible for reviewing spelling, dates, layout, and design details prior to approval.
Do you sell to the public?
No. Granite City Stone is a wholesale supplier and sells exclusively to cemeteries, monument companies, and trade professionals.
Are all memorials kept in stock?
Some items may be stocked, while others are produced to order. Availability depends on shape, color, and current inventory.
How are orders placed?
Ordering methods vary and may include phone, email, or in-person ordering. Granite City Stone ordering procedures may be tailored to customer needs.
What are typical lead times?
Lead times vary based on product type, customization, and inventory availability.
Can orders be picked up directly?
Yes. Orders may be picked up at the Granite City Stone facility by appointment.
Is shipping available?
Shipping options vary and may include customer-arranged freight.
Who is responsible for damage during transport?
For shipped orders, responsibility transfers to the transport company upon pickup and acceptance of the shipment. For customer pickups, responsibility transfers to the purchaser once the order leaves the Granite City Stone facility.
What are bargain or display memorials?
These are memorials offered at a reduced price due to cosmetic imperfections such as stains, scratches, or minor chips.
Are discounted memorials structurally sound?
Yes. Cosmetic imperfections do not affect the structural integrity of the granite.