What is a Companion Headstone?
- Kyle Gillespie
- Apr 10
- 5 min read
When it comes to honoring loved ones who have passed, a companion headstone is a meaningful and elegant choice for couples or families who wish to share a lasting memorial. Whether you are planning for yourself or a loved one, understanding the significance and options available for companion headstones can provide peace of mind during a difficult time. In this article, we will explore what companion headstones are, the different types available, and why they may be the right choice for your memorial needs.
At Gillespie Marble & Granite Works in Greenville, SC, we specialize in creating custom headstones, including companion headstones, that are designed to reflect the unique relationships and lives of those memorialized. Our expert team helps families navigate this important decision, ensuring each monument is crafted with care and respect.
What is a Companion Headstone?
A companion headstone is a shared monument typically placed in a cemetery to commemorate two individuals, often a couple, family members, or close friends. These headstones are designed to be large enough to represent both individuals, symbolizing their connection and shared memories.
Unlike individual headstones, which are designed for one person, a companion headstone offers the opportunity to engrave both names, birth and death dates, and other personal inscriptions on a single monument. Companion headstones are often chosen by couples who wish to be buried side by side or by families who want to memorialize multiple loved ones in a single location.
Types of Companion Headstones
Companion headstones come in a variety of styles, materials, and designs. The right choice for your loved ones depends on personal preferences, cemetery regulations, and the desired aesthetic. Below are some of the most common types of companion headstones:
1. Flat Companion Headstone
A flat companion headstone is one of the most common choices due to its simplicity and affordability. These headstones lie flat on the ground and typically feature inscriptions for both individuals. Flat headstones are a great option for families looking for a low-profile, subtle memorial.
Advantages: Affordable, subtle, and requires less maintenance.
Ideal for: Budget-conscious families or those with limited space in the cemetery.
2. Upright Companion Headstone
An upright companion headstone stands vertically and is more prominent than a flat headstone. These monuments often include a base and a vertical stone slab, which provides a larger area for inscriptions and designs.
Advantages: A larger area for inscriptions and personalization, visually striking.
Ideal for: Families who prefer a traditional or more elaborate design.
3. Bevel Companion Headstone
A bevel companion headstone is a hybrid between flat and upright styles. It is slightly elevated at the back, creating a sloping effect. This style allows for an elegant look while keeping the headstone closer to the ground than an upright one.
Advantages: Provides a graceful look while staying close to the ground.
Ideal for: Families who want a classic style with a more subtle elevation.
4. Slant Companion Headstone
A slant companion headstone has a sloped design, usually with the front portion set at a 45-degree angle. This style offers more visibility compared to flat stones while providing a balanced appearance. Slant headstones often have the family name inscribed at the top, with individual names and other information below.
Advantages: Visually appealing with a noticeable incline for easier reading.
Ideal for: Families seeking a prominent but classic look.
Materials Used in Companion Headstones
Companion headstones can be made from a variety of materials, each offering unique qualities in terms of appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements. Here are some of the most common materials used:
1. Granite
Granite is the most popular material for companion headstones due to its durability, resistance to weathering, and wide range of colors. It is ideal for those seeking a lasting memorial that will stand the test of time.
Advantages: Extremely durable, resistant to erosion, and available in various colors and finishes.
Ideal for: Families who want a long-lasting memorial with versatile design options.
2. Marble
Marble offers a more classic, elegant appearance compared to granite. However, it is softer and more susceptible to weather damage over time, especially in outdoor conditions.
Advantages: Timeless, elegant, and traditional look.
Ideal for: Families who appreciate a classic aesthetic, though it requires more maintenance.
3. Bronze
Bronze headstones are less common but provide a distinctive, rich look. They are often used in combination with granite or marble and can add a unique touch to any cemetery memorial.
Advantages: Beautiful, highly customizable, and corrosion-resistant.
Ideal for: Families looking for a different, custom-designed memorial.
4. Limestone
Limestone is a softer material, often used for headstones in regions where weather conditions are milder. While not as durable as granite, limestone offers a more affordable option for families on a budget.
Advantages: Affordable and provides a more subtle, rustic appearance.
Ideal for: Families in milder climates or those looking for a more budget-friendly option.
Customizing Your Companion Headstone
One of the main benefits of choosing a companion headstone is the ability to personalize it in a variety of ways. Personalization options can include:
Engravings: Names, dates, quotes, religious symbols, and personal messages.
Artwork: Custom artwork, such as images of nature, angels, or religious icons.
Family Crest: For families with a specific lineage or heritage, a family crest can be added to the headstone.
Unique Shapes: Some families choose non-traditional shapes, such as hearts or crosses, to represent their loved ones.
Why Choose a Companion Headstone?
Companion headstones offer several advantages over individual headstones:
Symbolic Connection: They provide a visual representation of the bond shared between two individuals, whether it's a married couple, family members, or close friends.
Cost-Effective: Choosing a companion headstone for two individuals is often more affordable than purchasing separate headstones for each person.
Space Efficiency: Companion headstones are ideal for cemeteries with limited space, allowing multiple people to be memorialized in a single plot.
Timeless Memorial: Companion headstones stand as a lasting testament to the lives of those they represent, ensuring that their memories will live on for generations.
Choosing the Right Companion Headstone for Your Loved Ones
When selecting a companion headstone, it's essential to consider a few key factors:
Cemetery Regulations: Before making your choice, check with your cemetery for any regulations regarding headstone size, design, and material.
Budget: While companion headstones can be more affordable than purchasing two separate monuments, the cost will still vary depending on the material, design, and customization.
Personal Preferences: Consider the preferences and personality of the individuals being memorialized. Whether they prefer simplicity or elaborate design, make sure the headstone reflects their lives and values.
Conclusion: A Lasting Tribute to Your Loved Ones
A companion headstone is more than just a marker in the cemetery; it's a meaningful tribute to the lives shared between two people. Whether you're planning for a couple or a family, a companion headstone provides a timeless memorial that celebrates connection, love, and memory.
If you are ready to design a companion headstone or learn more about your options, contact Gillespie Marble & Granite Works today. Our team is dedicated to helping you create the perfect memorial for your loved ones. Visit us in Greenville, SC, or call us at 864-232-2651 to discuss your needs.
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