gravestones

Gravestones, also called headstones or tombstones, are markers that designate a burial site in a cemetery or private plot. They memorialize the deceased and typically include the name, birth and death dates, and sometimes an epitaph or inscription. Many feature symbols, religious motifs, or images that reflect the deceased's identity, beliefs, or affiliations, and they can serve genealogical and historical purposes.

Most modern gravestones are made of durable stone, with granite by far the most common choice. Alternatives include marble, sandstone, limestone, slate, and bronze plaques set on a stone base. Forms range from upright memorials to table-tomb designs, flat tablets at ground level, or larger family ledgers that cover a grave.

Inscriptions convey personal information and sentiments. They may list occupations, military service, affiliations, or achievements, and they often note the ages at death. Epitaphs can be brief or descriptive and may be in the local language or Latinized phrases. Because stone yields to weathering, inscriptions can erode over time, making preservation a concern.

Design and iconography vary by era and culture. In Western cemeteries, headstones frequently display Christian symbols, such as crosses, angels, or urn-and-wand motifs, but styles range widely. Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions also govern grave orientation, inscriptions, and motifs, resulting in diverse forms and languages.

Maintenance and regulation: Cemetery authorities typically set rules for placement, maintenance, and restoration. Older gravestones may be protected as cultural heritage, and professional conservation is advised to preserve inscriptions and material integrity.