How to Choose a Cemetery Monument – Part 2
Once the foundational decisions are in place—such as monument type, material, and cemetery regulations—the focus shifts to personalization. This stage allows families to transform a monument into a deeply meaningful tribute that reflects a loved one’s personality, values, faith, and life story.
In Part 1, we covered the essential planning steps involved in choosing a cemetery monument. In Part 2, we explore how design, inscriptions, religious symbolism, and final approvals come together to create a lasting memorial. At St. Charles Monuments, we believe that every monument should be as unique as the individual it honors.
Designing a Meaningful Cemetery Monument
Monument design is where remembrance becomes personal. While cemetery regulations guide size and style, there is often significant flexibility in layout, engraving, and artistic details.
Key design elements include:
- The shape and proportions of the monument
- The placement of text and artwork
- The balance between simplicity and decorative features
Some families prefer a traditional design that emphasizes elegance and restraint, while others choose more expressive layouts that incorporate imagery, custom etching, or symbolic elements. There is no “right” or “wrong” approach—only what feels most meaningful to the family.
At St. Charles Monuments, our designers work closely with families to ensure the monument’s layout is visually balanced, readable, and timeless.
Choosing the Right Inscription
The inscription is often the most powerful element of a cemetery monument. It preserves a name, a legacy, and a connection across generations.
Common inscription elements include:
- The full name of the deceased
- Dates of birth and passing
- Short epitaphs or meaningful phrases
Families may choose traditional inscriptions such as “Beloved Mother and Grandmother,” or more personalized messages that reflect character, humor, or devotion. Space planning is critical, especially for companion or family monuments that may require future inscriptions.
Because engraving is permanent, careful review and expert guidance are essential. St. Charles Monuments helps families refine wording, confirm spacing, and ensure clarity before any carving begins.
Lettering Styles and Engraving Techniques
Lettering style plays a major role in the monument’s overall appearance. The choice of font, depth, and finish can dramatically affect readability and aesthetics.
Popular lettering options include:
- Raised lettering, often used with bronze or applied granite letters
- Incised lettering, carved directly into the stone
- Polished or painted lettering for enhanced contrast
Each style has its own advantages in terms of durability and visual impact. Our team helps families select lettering that complements the monument design while maintaining long-term legibility.
Religious Symbols, Artwork, and Personal Imagery
Many families choose to incorporate religious or symbolic imagery into a monument. These elements can provide comfort, express faith, and reflect cultural traditions.
Common symbols include:
- Crosses, Stars of David, and other religious icons
- Angels, doves, or floral motifs
- Military insignia or fraternal emblems
In addition to traditional symbols, modern monument craftsmanship allows for highly detailed custom etching. Scenes from nature, meaningful objects, or even portraits can be engraved into granite, creating a deeply personal tribute.
At St. Charles Monuments, we ensure that all artwork is thoughtfully placed and executed with precision, respecting both the monument’s design and cemetery guidelines.
Considering Companion and Family Inscriptions
For families planning a companion or family monument, it is important to think ahead. Design layouts should accommodate future inscriptions without compromising balance or readability.
Planning ahead may include:
- Leaving space for additional names or dates
- Matching lettering styles for consistency
- Ensuring symmetry in layout as inscriptions are added over time
This forward-thinking approach helps preserve the monument’s visual harmony for years to come.
Reviewing Designs and Obtaining Final Approvals
Before production begins, all monument designs must be reviewed and approved. This process includes:
- Family approval of layout, wording, and artwork
- Submission to the cemetery for compliance review
Cemetery approval timelines can vary, which is why working with an experienced monument company is so important. St. Charles Monuments manages all submissions, revisions, and approvals on behalf of the family, minimizing stress and delays.
Monument Installation and Final Placement
Once the monument is completed and approved, installation is the final step. Proper installation is essential to ensure stability, longevity, and compliance with cemetery requirements.
Installation considerations include:
- Foundation preparation
- Alignment and leveling
- Weather and ground conditions
With professional installation, families can feel confident that the monument will stand securely and maintain its appearance over time.
A Lasting Tribute with St. Charles Monuments
Choosing a cemetery monument is a deeply personal journey—one that combines emotion, tradition, and careful decision-making. In Part 2, we explored how personalization transforms a monument into a meaningful tribute that honors a loved one’s life and legacy.
From initial design concepts to final installation, St. Charles Monuments is proud to serve families throughout Long Island with compassion, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Our goal is to create monuments that not only meet expectations, but truly stand the test of time.
If you are ready to begin the process or have questions about monument design, inscriptions, or cemetery requirements, our experienced team is here to help—every step of the way.