How to choose the right granite monument. Monument to the grave which is better from granite or marble

Seven Aspects to Clarify Before Ordering a Monument.

1. In which cemetery will the deceased be buried?

This question is much more important than it might seem at first glance:

• In addition to the general installation of tombstones, there is its own regulation. Everyone has the right to put forward their demands. They concern dimensions of the stele, the ability to install fence, limit plot dimensions and even installation teams.
• It is necessary to take into account the age of the cemetery and the degree of its grooming. An elegant fragile monument, for example, in an old and abandoned cemetery can become a victim of a number of circumstances- careless handling, destruction of neighboring gravestones, falling branches from trees and, alas, including vandalism or theft.
• It also matters how look like a monument among others. A modern, expensive and flashy tombstone may look out of place and flashy against the background of old and modest stelae, or simply get lost in the general background if the cemetery is cramped and overgrown with trees.

2. For how long is this tombstone installed?

This question seems strange only at first glance. Many first put on the grave temporary tombstones in order to change it to a permanent, more reliable one in a few years.

• It's one thing if it's monument on the grave of an elderly person, a distant relative, the last in the family. Then the tombstone should be installed "once and for all", and it is worth making it, if simple, then the most durable.
• Other - if on the same site they will bury and others family members, and provides for the replacement of the monument over time at subsequent burials.
• You can stop at or a family memorial, but this is all the more necessary to think about in advance.

3. Will the maintenance of the monument and the grave be regular?

If you do not plan to visit the grave at least twice a year, then it is better to abandon plans for large-scale landscaping and limit yourself to unpretentious ones. And if the grave, presumably, will remain without care for a year or more, then it may not be worth planting flowers on it at all, and instead of a flower garden, put a tombstone or lay out the area with gravel or tiles.

The condition of the monument itself also depends on the regularity of care. Some tombstones - for example - perfectly resist any impact. environment and the vagaries of the weather. Others (such as marble tombstones) require an annual treatment to protect the pores of the stone from moisture and dust, and ultimately from dirt and cracks. Think also about whether someone can in a few years.

4. What are your financial possibilities?

They can be ten times different. In addition, other costs are added to the cost of the tombstone itself - for delivery, installation, decoration etc.

• There are enough opportunities save on the manufacture of the monument without prejudice to the final result. This is an advance (in autumn and winter), the acquisition of a typical tombstone, the rejection of complex forms and the minimization of manual work in decoration - for example, choosing instead of manual. Delivery and installation of a simple monument can also be done independently if necessary.
• But not everything is worth saving. First of all, it is the material. Tombstones are cheaper than those made from natural stone. But it is very likely that in a few seasons you will have additional investments in the restoration, and even in the replacement of the stele.
• No need to save on site preparation For . Large and heavy tombstones and steles non-standard shape with a displaced center of gravity, require a high-quality and reliable foundation, and it is better not to neglect this.

5. What monument would the deceased himself choose and what are the expectations of loved ones?

When choosing a monument, the customer tries to adequately fulfill his last duty to the deceased, demonstrate respect, or even simply do “not worse, but better” than others.

• It makes sense when tombstones reflect the personality of the deceased and not the customer. In this regard, there may be a specific will of the deceased, which must be respected. Someone wants a simple stone on his grave, and relatives not too; someone punishes you to depict your favorite car on the stele or musical instrument- and this is the right of everyone.
• On the other hand, the feelings of those who will visit the grave. In the case of a modest elderly person without relatives, it may not be worth it to “show off” the complex form of the monument or expensive material. But if the deceased was a young man, had many friends and relatives, and left untimely, then excessive asceticism in design may cause misunderstanding among visitors to the churchyard.
• This also applies religious monuments: in some cases, the relatives of the deceased will consider appropriate design elements, for example, or tombstones.

6. What image should be on the monument?

Photo for a portrait must comply not only with technical requirements, but also with its purpose: to call fond memories of the deceased. You should not use too late photographs for this, or those that the deceased himself considered unsuccessful. If colored granite or gray marble is used for the stele, then the portrait must either be engraved on a separate granite insert - a portrait plate.

The image on the monument can be not only a portrait: in fact, you can put on a tombstone. But if the deceased was a person, you need to take this into account in the design of the monument with images. So, Orthodox Church, without forbidding anything, still approves of modesty, and the canons of Sharia do not allow images of living beings to be placed on the tombstone. You can also refuse to apply images, limiting yourself only to the name of the deceased and the dates of his life.

Tombstones can individualize and in other ways: for example, using bas-relief or ceramic inserts, combining different materials using forged elements. When ordering a finished monument, you can make it special with additional accessories, bronze letters and symbols. The more relevant the personalization of the tombstone, the more important it is to receive and approve the layout or 3D model of the complex before it is made.

7. What accessories will decorate the monument and ennoble the grave?

You are not required to erect something else besides a monument at the burial site - even. But they do not only decorative, but also utilitarian functions. Benches and tables are obviously convenient for visitors. Icon cases and lampadas are appropriate if believers can pray there. Vases, planters, flowerpots and pergolas will decorate the grave. But vice versa, they can worsen the impression if they are with wilted flowers or empty. Foresee in advance which of these will be used, and what - just stand idle. Add a manufacturing order tombstone useful accessories, and the grave will look “alive” and more well-groomed by caring relatives and friends.

Choosing a tombstone for a grave is not an easy question, especially for those who have never dealt with it before. Do not rush into such an important matter. After all, a properly chosen tombstone will help perpetuate the memory of the deceased - this is the most that we can do for him.

How to choose the right material

The creation and installation of a monument to the deceased is not an easy and time-consuming task. In cemeteries, you can see a variety of types and forms of tombstones. There are a wide variety of materials from which tombstones can be made:

1. A piece of natural stone.
2. Wrought iron and bronze.
3. polymer granite.
4. Granite.
5. Marble of various grades.

Most often, monuments are made of marble or granite. hallmark granite is its high durability. It is better to consult with a specialist when choosing a tombstone made from this material.

Features of the choice of tombstones for the deceased of a different faith

Religious beliefs are a very sensitive issue that requires special approach and very caring attitude. It is important to remember this not only during the life of a believer, but also when paying tribute to him.

In particular, it is strictly forbidden to install sculptures on the grave of the followers of Islam. It is also forbidden to establish mazars - from the point of view of the Muslim religion, this is wasteful and cannot help the deceased in any way.

Understanding the correct installation of tombstones on the graves of people of other nationalities and religions helps to avoid conflict situations. There should not be photographs on the stone - you can only perpetuate the name of the deceased.

Which headstone is better to choose for the parent's grave

Often married couples who have lived for many years in harmony and understanding, are asked to bury them close to each other. This tradition has been going on for centuries different peoples. This is how you can do last will their parents and express their respect and respect to them.

Paired monuments are very widespread in our time and have a number of advantages:

1. This requires less financial outlay.
2. Graves have a very aesthetic appearance - two tombstones will look less aesthetically pleasing.
3. Thanks to such a monument, you can save on the area of ​​​​the site, which, as a rule, is very limited.

A standard site for a double burial occupies about 5 square meters. meters. Placing two tombstones on such a limited area will not look very aesthetically pleasing. In addition, there will be no room at all for planting trees or installing a bench. A paired structure will avoid all these difficulties and pay tribute to your departed parents.

Monument installation technique

Any photo can be placed on the tombstone. However, religious and cultural traditions should be taken into account here.

It is necessary to choose a monument for installation taking into account the own financial capabilities and preferences of the deceased. After the choice of this or that model of a monument has been made, it is necessary to decide on terms of installation. It is not very desirable to do this immediately after the funeral has taken place. It is recommended to wait at least one year. During this period, the soil on the grave will settle and compact, and the monument is guaranteed not to fall or squint.

The season of the year has a great influence on the correct installation of the tombstone. It is strongly not recommended to do this in winter at low soil and air temperatures. At this time, the ground is very damp and freezes.

Therefore, the quality of the installation of the monument cannot be reliable. However, after the funeral has passed, it is also impossible to leave the grave empty. In this situation, a temporary simple wooden cross may be the way out.

A plate must be fixed on it, on which data about a person is indicated - his name and surname, date of birth and death. Over the next year, you can decide on the choice of a monument, based on your own preferences and capabilities, or guided by recommendations and reviews.

Choosing a monument to the deceased is not an easy task. In this case, you can be guided by the opinion of specialists and take into account religious and cultural characteristics.

Read also:

Want to order a monument but don't know what material, granite or marble?

Granite or marble- what stone better For making a monument?

Let's see which material is more suitable for our climate.

European monuments on the grave:

Deciding on the choice in a ritual office or workshop to order a monument made of granite or marble, many decide in favor of natural stones for monuments. Most often this granite or marble. Both of these materials are great for making a monument and have a number of significant advantages over cheaper options. However, these monument stones are very different from each other. Therefore, before ordering a tombstone, you need to understand what their differences are. If you want to buy a monument made of granite or marble, be sure to contact the professionals.

When it comes to setting up a monument - reliable and durable, and therefore, made of natural stone - two eternally competing materials enter the arena - marble and granite. And here it begins, which one is more beautiful, stronger, more reliable and (which is important, by the way) more noble.

It is almost impossible to find information on the net, which is still better and more preferable, marble or granite. Not because she doesn't exist. On the contrary, it is there and in abundance. But because each seller (and you can pay attention that articles of similar content are located just on the websites of sellers of similar products) praises exactly the stone that he needs to sell to his reader. What kind of objectivity is there if the information in different, at first glance, authoritative sources is absolutely contradictory? Here they say granite is better, there - marble. Here they will tell that granite is more expensive, they say the same thing about marble. In general, we decided to put everything together and make (perhaps for the first time in the history of the Internet) the most unbiased analysis, clarifying not only the difference between marble and granite, but also the practical value of each of them.

GRANITE

Granite- this is a mountain igneous rock;

Marble is a metamorphic rock.

Here is such a difference. It means that both stones are natural rock. Marble is not pressed shells, as granite sellers claim, and granite, in turn, is not quartz, although to some extent the latter is contained in stone. Both materials are natural and natural, both contain natural impurities, and their specific composition and characteristics depend on the deposit.

Monument to the grave, which is better from granite or marble?

Go ahead. Density. Granite is indeed harder and therefore stronger than marble. On the one hand, this characteristic does not allow craftsmen to carve small details from such a hard stone and create truly masterpiece sculptures, like from marble. But on the other hand, in combination with some other features (which will be discussed below), this makes granite more durable.

MARBLE

Speaking of durability. In several places I have seen that a granite monument will stand without changes for about 600 years, and a marble monument for about 150. Yes, the difference is noticeable. But let's be clear. When we lose someone close, we erect a monument not for posterity and not even for the deceased. This is what we need first. We pay the last debt, we keep the last refuge of a dear relative clean and tidy, we arrange wakes and farewells - all this maintains a broken connection in us and gives at least some consolation. Therefore, answer the question: which is better - 600 or 150 years? As far as I'm concerned, there isn't much of a difference. 150 years is, of course, not 600, but in comparison with several dozens that monuments made of synthetic materials are “capable of”, this is very, very worthy.

Now let's figure it out What is more expensive - granite or marble? But we will not be able to understand the difference in cost, because the very formulation of the question is incorrect. The fact is that it is possible to distinguish the value, and as a result, the price of one or another stone in comparison with another, only taking into account its deposit, type and method of extraction. Add here the pricing policy of the seller from whom you purchase the monument. So, Italian marble of an elite type will naturally come out more expensive than some Chinese granite. Conversely, high-end, expensive granite will outsell low-quality marble from Egypt. So my advice to you is not to be guided by a stone, but by your own financial capabilities.

And finally, let's remember a few myths about marble and granite, which are skillfully operated by sellers of monuments:

1. Granite is radioactive and dangerous. This is the favorite “horror story” of marble fans. In fact, any natural stone has a certain radioactive background, which is absolutely safe for humans. In the case of granite, it all depends on the place where it was mined. Each deposit, before receiving official permission to extract raw materials from it, undergoes a mandatory radiation test. And if you buy certified products, then there is nothing to be afraid of. The only danger that granite can pose to a person can happen if you drop a monument on someone's foot.
2. Marble stains and turns yellow. Everything gets stained if you don't take care of it. This stone is indeed less resistant to weather conditions than granite, and may suffer more externally. But I assure you, if you look after the monument, at least occasionally wiping it, then even after many years it will be almost impossible to distinguish it from a new one.
3. Only primitive forms can be made from granite. And pass again. Of course, rectangles work best for granite, but even if not so detailed, beautiful compositions are still obtained from this stone. I saw granite angels, and all sorts of flowers, and draperies. Of course, in marble it would be more thoroughly executed, but, believe me, granite looks very worthy.
4. The marble is moldy. Unfortunately, this happens. But not only with marble, but with any stone, if it has microscopic cracks. It's a pity, but this moment is not particularly predictable. The only way to reinsure yourself is to inquire about the method of extracting raw materials for the monument. If an explosion was used, then the stone will “bloom”, as if covered with a greenish film. If the raw material is cut out, then there is nothing to worry about.

Summarize: my friends, choose the material that you like best. Perhaps, in memory of a young innocent girl, gentle, white marble is more suitable, and a strict and restrained man will be adequately commemorated with a granite monument. One way or another, both granite and marble are a good and justified choice ....

You can order a monument made of granite or marble by phone: +7 499 391 59 04 ; +7 916 099 92 88

Natural stone, polymer material, metal, wood or glass? Stele, obelisk, vertically or horizontally oriented slab? Artistic design of the monument: carving, engraving, photoceramics, inscription text? Author's copy or standard project? As it turns out, choosing a monument is not an easy task at all.

Demand creates supply in absolutely everything. If we add to this the leaps and bounds of progress, it is not surprising that today, even in the matter of choosing a tombstone, the customer will be offered many different options.

headstone material

Currently, the main materials for the manufacture of tombstones are natural stone (granite, marble, gabbro, diabase, serpentine, labradorite, etc.) and artificial polymer materials(ceramic granite, granite polymer, various resins as a coating). Also, metal or wood is used as materials.

A natural stone. Despite being expensive relative to other materials, natural stone is the preferred choice. Undoubtedly, the costs incurred will pay off over time: having paid for the monument once, you will not have to spend additional funds on its restoration or premature replacement.

Which stone is most suitable for the conditions of Moscow and the Moscow region? In conditions of significant temperature fluctuations and high humidity, granite is the most problem-free material: it does not require mandatory processing and cleaning, does not crack or fade in the sun, has a wide color scheme and unique pattern. With a very limited budget, it is advisable to order a small typical granite monument with appropriate photoceramics and engraving.

Marble. Due to its plasticity, marble is easy to process, which determines the demand for this material in the manufacture of complex sculptures with detailed details. In addition, marble has a wide color spectrum and is especially valued among adherents of light colors. The disadvantages of marble include its relative fragility compared to granite, as well as the exactingness of regular maintenance. Marble is a porous material, so it must be cleaned carefully. Marble cannot be cleaned with ordinary household products. Even weak acids can destroy the structure of the stone, and the abrasives contained in the powders leave noticeable scratches. Marble also does not like acidic, greasy and coloring liquids (wine, vinegar, oil): these liquids can leave permanent stains on the surface.

To make marble pleasing to the eye long years, you need to purchase a special detergent for the care of natural stone and use it in combination with velvet. Stone care products have a reduced content of aggressive substances and do not contain abrasive elements.

Gabbro- rock, characterized by a dark tint (black, dark green, spotted) and interesting pattern. To the main advantages this material can be attributed to strength and durability, as well as the contrast of engraving on a dark surface.

Diabase (dolerite)- strong and impact-resistant material of natural origin, dark gray or greenish-black. Compared to granite and marble, the cost of diabase monuments is much more democratic.

Serpentine (serpentinite)- a natural stone of rich green color with white spots and veins. The serpentine is distinguished by its original color and interesting pattern, unique to each field. Serpentinite has a small hardness, is easily processed and polished. The serpentine can be used both as the main stone and as separate elements of the monument.

labradorite- in addition to strength, it has an unusual pattern: due to the mineral composition, the stone shimmers like mother-of-pearl.

artificial materials. A more budgetary alternative to natural stone are synthetic materials based on stone chips and polymer resins. Such monuments are much lighter than their counterparts made of natural stone, which significantly reduces the risk of soil subsidence. On the other hand, when choosing such a tombstone, one should remember that within the next 8-10 years, all the inscriptions and drawings applied to it will disappear from the monument, and the tombstone itself will become noticeably lighter. In addition, cracks inevitably form at the inter-element joints, the appearance of which is invariably promoted by strong temperature fluctuations and high humidity.

Wood and metal. Wooden and metal monuments are usually a temporary headstone option until a permanent monument is erected. It is necessary to take into account the fact that metal and wooden monuments very quickly lose their aesthetic appeal: everyone is familiar with half-rotted or rust-eaten rickety crosses on unkempt graves.

tombstone design

On currently The most popular form of monuments are vertically and horizontally oriented slabs. The tombstone can be installed both on one burial and on several graves. At the graves of military personnel, stone steles or obelisks are often installed.

Most companies offer to purchase both individual monuments and entire ritual complexes. ritual ( memorial Complex) involves, in addition to the monument, the installation of a plinth, fence, table, bench and other elements made in the same style.

Photoceramics and other design elements

Currently, special printers are used to print portraits on ceramics. Automated printing method ensures 100% likeness to photo and excellent quality Images.

Printers for ceramics are both laser (decal, decal) and inkjet. The main difference between these printers is the way the image is applied.

An inkjet printer prints an image on the surface of the monument, after which powder paint is applied and the entire product is fired in a muffle furnace. A laser (or decal) printer creates a special ceramic transfer image (decal), which is transferred to the monument, after which it is fired in a kiln.

In addition to photographic images, inscriptions are usually applied to the monuments. Engraving of inscriptions and drawings can be done both manually and mechanically. Most common modern way engraving - laser engraving - provides the most accurate transfer of the pattern.

1. Save smart. When choosing between cheap material and the small size of a typical monument, lean towards the latter option. Even the simplest tombstone made of natural stone will look solid and dignified, which cannot be said about works made of artificial materials and low-grade stones. Choosing a cheap material, in the future you will spend a much larger amount ordering the cleaning of the monument, its restoration, updating the inscription and engraving. Special care should be taken with granites from China. If there is an opportunity for an equivalent choice, it is more expedient to choose a monument from a stone mined in Russia or Ukraine.
2. When contacting a tombstone sales company, ask where these monuments were made. The minimum cost of tombstones is from their direct manufacturers. In addition, if the monuments are produced at the point of sale, this also reduces their cost - after all, the company does not spend extra money on their delivery to the store.
3. A reputable company is ready to demonstrate its products "live", that is, it has exhibition hall. Be wary of companies that showcase their products only in catalogs.
4. If you are not in the mood to spend a large amount for an exclusive copy, do not succumb to persuasion to order a monument according to an individual project. Large companies provide up to 100 types of standard headstones and several options material. Most likely, from this abundance you can choose what you like.
5. There is a common myth that you can save a lot on a monument by buying a plate from one manufacturer and ordering engraving and photoceramics elsewhere - where it is cheaper. Do not forget that in this case, the double transportation of the monument and the services of movers will also cost you a certain amount.
6. Do not rush with the manufacture and installation of the monument. The term of one year from the day of the funeral was not invented by chance: after four seasons with their different weather conditions, the soil becomes compacted and actually acquires its natural structure. In such conditions, the probability of a successful installation of the monument, i.e. even arrangement of all elements without the risk of subsidence, tends to 100%. To avoid unpleasant surprises in the form of falling and subsidence of the monument, it is also necessary to remember that tombstones are installed in warm, dry weather.

Related Documents

The purchase of a monument is accompanied by the execution of certain documentation. In particular, a standard contract for the manufacture of a tombstone is concluded between the customer and the contractor, which indicates: the cost of the monument (the cost of material and work), the timing of the manufacture of the monument and payment for the order, the obligations of the parties, warranty obligations, the possibility of storing the monument before installation and other items provided for seller company. A receipt of payment and a sales receipt are attached to the contract.

The bright memory of a person who left our world in the hearts of his loved ones and relatives remains forever. The path to the grave does not overgrow, there are always fresh flowers. To emphasize the love for the departed and the depth of their grief, family members set up a tombstone on the grave, where the dates of birth and death, the name of the deceased, epitaphs are usually written, often a photograph is placed (either engraved on the slab itself or printed). What are monuments made of? Read about it in the article.

Tombstone installation

Today, you can order a monument in every funeral home. The staff will provide you with a catalog with samples from which you can choose the appropriate option. Also, if you want, the tombstone can be made according to an individual sketch. Before placing an order, you need to select the material. About what the monuments are made of, you will be told at the office of the manufacturing company. Keep in mind that the better and stronger the material is, the longer the tombstone will retain its original appearance, however, the price will also be higher, respectively. Now the market offers all kinds of gravestones: made of stone, metal, polymer granite, concrete and even wood. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each option in more detail.

Monuments made of natural stone

Such tombstones are considered the most reliable and noble, they will look decent for a long time and can stand for centuries. What stone are the monuments made of? by the most best material granite is rightfully considered, marble is no less often used. Let's talk about the properties of these stones.

1. Gravestones made of granite

This material under the influence of the rays of the sun does not turn gray and does not fade, does not crack with temperature changes. Granite monument can be of any thickness and shape, because the material is easy to process. At the same time, you can be sure that the finished product will not be damaged: cracks and chips. It will be possible to apply portrait image of any complexity, and the surface will not lose accuracy and will not look too scratched. The advantage of this stone lies in the fact that it is presented in a huge variety of color variations, so you can choose absolutely any color. Gabbro granite is considered the most beautiful and expensive.

2. Tombstones made of marble

This material is softer than granite, therefore, it is more problematic to work with it. Perhaps, the advantages can be attributed only to more low price. It is impossible to carve a portrait on such a stone, so usually a photo oval is attached to it.

Manufacturers make tombstones not only from natural marble, but also make monuments from artificial stone. In any case, the material requires regular maintenance and is less durable than granite. If you live at a considerable distance from the burial place and do not have the opportunity to often come to the cemetery to clean the marble from contamination, it is better to choose another option for the tombstone. The fact is that spots remain from grease and moisture on such monuments, and the colored material is also distinguished by low frost resistance.

metal monuments

This group includes bronze, iron and other tombstones. Different metals have different properties, but have a common significant drawback - susceptibility to corrosion. Unfortunately, you should also be wary of vandalism. Metal products can be handed over for money to a recycling center, so there are times when monuments are simply taken away from the cemetery.

1. Tombstones made of bronze

They look expensive and solid, even corrosion looks noble on them. Nevertheless, they are quite rare in full, often letters or bronze decorations are applied to stone slabs. Thus, even the most modest tombstone can be given individuality.

2. Iron monuments

These products are simple and easy to install. But dismantling, unfortunately, also will not cause difficulties. In general, it is better not to choose this material: it quickly rusts and is easily deformed. To some extent, this situation can be prevented if the tombstone is regularly painted.

What material are monuments made of?

Now often polymer granite is used for this type of product. This is a mixture of granite chips, which is first cast into molds, and after hardening, they are covered with a protective compound and decorated with decorative elements. Such a tombstone will last less than a stone one, but it also costs less. Despite the fact that outwardly the monument will look like granite, inside it is often hollow. And this means that after some time the joints will begin to diverge, and the beautiful view will be lost. According to the manufacturing technology, polymer granite products are very similar to tombstones made of stone chips. The difference is only in the binding substance - a polymer is used instead of concrete.

Other materials

Talking about what monuments are made of, it is impossible not to mention concrete. From this material, the tombstone is cast as a whole, that is, apart from concrete, no other components are present. This design is unreliable, even with proper reinforcement, the monument will not retain its original appearance for long: concrete crumbles quickly and under the influence of external environment starts to crumble.

Finally

We have not listed all the options for what monuments are made of. The choice is quite extensive; In order not to be mistaken, it is better to seek advice from professionals. After all, it is important to establish such a tombstone that will leave for posterity the memory of the departed forever!