Professionally Crafted Gravestones in Calgary
Gravestones serve as lasting markers to honour and memorialize loved ones, providing families with a meaningful space to reflect and remember. At Somerville Memorials Ltd, we provide custom gravestones in Calgary that meet both practical and cultural requirements. This page offers a detailed overview of gravestone options, including styles, materials, and design choices, while maintaining a focus on factual, clear information.
Call us to learn more about our gravestone installation services in Calgary and surrounding areas, such as Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks, High River, Strathmore, and Banff.
The Role of Gravestones in Memorialization
Gravestones are placed at the burial site to indicate the resting place of the deceased. These markers typically display the individual's name, life dates, and a personal inscription or religious symbol. In addition to marking the grave, gravestones serve as long-term memorials that allow families to preserve legacies through custom designs and messages.
Types of Gravestones Available
Gravestones are available in various formats to accommodate cemetery regulations and family preferences. Common types include:
Upright Gravestones
⦿ Traditional vertical monuments are placed at the head of the grave
⦿ Available in a range of heights and shapes
Flat Markers
⦿ Laid flush with the ground for a low-profile appearance
⦿ Often used in cemeteries with standardized layout requirements
Slant Markers
⦿ Feature a sloped face for easier readability
⦿ Positioned upright but lower than standard headstones
Bevel Markers
⦿ Similar to flat markers with a slight tilt
⦿ Allow for easier visibility without being fully vertical
Gravestone Materials
Durability and aesthetics are essential when selecting a gravestone material. The most commonly used materials in gravestones include:
⦿ Granite: Highly durable, weather-resistant, and available in multiple colours
⦿ Bronze: Often used for flat markers, mounted on a granite base
⦿ Marble: Occasionally used for traditional designs, though less weather-resistant than granite
For more details on material selection, refer to our blog on the 5 factors to consider when buying a gravestone.
Customization Options
Gravestones can be personalized in several ways to reflect the individual's life and values. Our team works closely with families to finalize the details.
Personalization choices include:
⦿ Engraved names, dates, and epitaphs
⦿ Religious or cultural symbols
⦿ Laser-etched portraits or images
⦿ Custom shapes and stone finishes
⦿ Inscriptions in multiple languages
For inspiration, ideas, or to know what to write on a gravestone, read our blog on beautiful sayings to put on a gravestone.
Choosing the Right Gravestone
When selecting a gravestone in Calgary, several practical considerations must be taken into account:
⦿ Cemetery regulations: Each cemetery has specific guidelines for size, material, and placement.
⦿ Budget planning: Costs vary based on material, size, and design complexity.
⦿ Weather conditions: Durable materials like granite are recommended for Calgary's climate.
⦿ Cultural requirements: Families may wish to include religious or cultural elements specific to their background.
Maintenance Tips for Gravestones
Regular maintenance helps preserve the appearance and structural integrity of gravestones. Basic care includes:
⦿ Gently washing the surface with clean water and a soft cloth
⦿ Avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive tools
⦿ Inspecting for cracks or shifting due to seasonal weather changes
⦿ Re-levelling or re-inscribing when necessary
Somerville Memorials Ltd offers tips and insights on how to clean and maintain a gravestone.
Pricing and Ordering Process
The cost of a gravestone depends on the material, size, and degree of customization. Our process typically includes:
⦿ Initial consultation: Review of family needs and cemetery guidelines
⦿ Design approval: Drafting of layout and inscriptions
⦿ Production timeline: Based on material availability and complexity
⦿ Installation coordination: With the cemetery to meet regulatory requirements
Refer to our frequently asked questions section for more information related to our gravestone services.
Contact Somerville Memorials Ltd
For professionally crafted gravestones in Calgary, contact Somerville Memorials Ltd. Our team strives to provide clear, respectful guidance to help families honour their loved ones with care and accuracy.
