Modern Headstones

What is a contemporary headstone?

Unlike traditional gravestones, a modern headstone tends to have a more stylish design. Since the introduction of advanced stone cutting machinery the possibilities of uniquely cut headstone designs are endless. But what makes a headstone contemporary in its composition? Some visible features found on most contemporary gravestones include:

Highly polished granite’s cut in unrestricted geometrical forms.
Hand-carved images and carving as part of the headstone construction.
The inclusion of headstone accessories such as crosses, vases and lights.
Intricate etched images and laser engraved pictures on polished granite.

Because of its hardness and durability granite remains the no1 choice for most stylish tombstone designs. While marble, limestone, and slate are still used in present-day gravestone construction they are prone to delamination over time. Such materials also require annual maintenance to keep them in prime condition.

Modern headstone designs

On the whole, modern headstone designs refer to the styles and trends of the present. As opposed to traditional memorials that have a more classic design style through the ages. While today’s contemporary gravestones merge with modern designs by utilizing simple clean lines and curves focused on practicality. For example, our “stylish headstone with crucifix” has a minimalist appeal presented with smooth curves and beveled edges while still highlighting the headstones main features. More than that, many modern headstones are designed around prominent elements such as a heart or guitar. To whom the deceased may have had an affection to during their life.

Modern Headstones with carving

Have you ever noticed that almost all modern headstones with carving stand out more than others? In truth there is something about a three dimensional carving that makes you stop and admire its artistry. Sculpted by skilled mason sculptures, carvings in granite captivate an image or design bringing it to life in a way that is beyond compare. For instance, our “carved rose headstone” displays a life-like rose hand-carved with intricate detail. In a similar way, the “praying hands” modern gravestone encapsulates the theme the memorial portrays in an instant. Although etchings share similar characteristics to carved images, carvings enchant us in both form and appearance.

Modern Headstones with engraved pictures

Almost all contemporary gravestones displaying etched images will appear on a highly polished black granite surface. Due to this “mirror-like” reflective surface an impressive contrast forms between the engraved picture and the granite. Because of new technologies such as laser etching special images and photographs can now be engraved with exceptional detail. As can be seen from our “Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus etching”, color can also be added to a portion of the image. Thus further advancing the visual appearance of the etching. For the purpose of displaying our etched images clouds appear on reflective surface of the granite which are not part of the actual etching.

Simple modern headstone

While we see modern memorials in cemeteries the world over, a large portion of these have a simple gravestone design. Uncomplicated designs offer plain yet stylish tombstone arrangements as can be seen from our memorials below. The aesthetically pleasing clean lines and smooth curves give a simpler formation when compared to its ultra-modern counterpart. For this reason simple contemporary gravestones which focus on the inscription rather than design are suitable for most as a remembrance gift. On balance, straightforward modern styles will often stick to primary dimensions and color schemes which are in keeping with their own cemetery regulations.

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