Symbols on headstones are more than decoration. They communicate faith, values, personality, and love in a language that transcends words. A single carved image can say what a paragraph cannot: that someone served their country, cherished their family, held deep faith, or lived a life connected to nature.
This guide covers over 40 of the most common headstone symbols, organized by category, with their traditional meanings and cultural context. Whether you are choosing a symbol for a loved one's memorial or simply curious about one you have seen in a cemetery, this is your reference.
Why Symbols Matter on a Headstone
A headstone has limited space. On a standard 28x16x3in flat marker, you have room for a name, dates, a short epitaph, and one or two design elements. Symbols help you make that space count. They add visual character and communicate something deeply personal without taking up the room that words require.
Symbols also provide an immediate emotional connection for visitors. Someone walking through a cemetery can glance at a marker and understand, at a fundamental level, something about the person buried there. A cross communicates faith. An anchor suggests naval service or hope. A pair of clasped hands speaks to a lasting bond.
Many of these symbols have been used on headstones for centuries. Others are more modern. All of them carry weight, and choosing the right one is an important part of creating a meaningful memorial. If you are also deciding on text for your marker, our guide on what to put on a headstone covers names, dates, and epitaphs in detail.
Religious Symbols
Religious symbols are the most common design elements on headstones worldwide. They represent the deceased's faith and offer comfort to family members who share those beliefs.
Cross
The cross is the most widely used headstone symbol globally. It represents Christian faith, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and the promise of resurrection. Variations include the Latin cross (tall vertical with shorter horizontal bar), the Celtic cross (with a ring connecting the arms), and the Orthodox cross (with three horizontal bars). The style of cross often indicates the specific tradition within Christianity.
Crucifix
A crucifix is a cross with the figure of Christ on it. It is particularly common in Catholic traditions and emphasizes the redemptive suffering of Christ. On headstones, crucifixes tend to be more detailed than simple crosses and are often the central design element.
Star of David
The six-pointed Star of David (Magen David) represents Jewish faith and identity. It is one of the most recognized Jewish symbols and appears on headstones throughout Jewish cemeteries worldwide. It represents God's rule over the universe in all six directions.
Menorah
The seven-branched menorah is an ancient Jewish symbol representing the Temple in Jerusalem. On headstones, it signifies deep connection to Jewish tradition and the light of God's presence. It is less common than the Star of David but carries profound religious significance.
Crescent and Star
The crescent moon with a star is widely associated with Islam. On headstones in Muslim cemeteries, it represents faith in Allah and the Islamic way of life. The crescent may face left or right depending on regional custom. Some Muslim headstones also feature calligraphic verses from the Quran.
Angel
Angels appear across multiple faith traditions. On headstones, they represent divine guidance, protection, and the transition from earthly life to the afterlife. A full angel figure suggests a guardian watching over the departed. Angel wings alone can represent the soul's flight to heaven. Angels are especially common on children's memorials, where they convey innocence and heavenly care.
Praying Hands
Praying hands symbolize devotion, faith, and a life centered on prayer. This symbol crosses denominational lines and is used by Christians, Catholics, and other traditions. It is one of the most popular religious symbols for headstones because of its universal message of spiritual dedication.
Chi Rho
The Chi Rho is one of the earliest Christian symbols, combining the first two Greek letters of "Christ" (X and P). It dates to the time of the Roman Emperor Constantine. On headstones, it represents an ancient and scholarly connection to the Christian faith.
Mormon Angel Moroni
In the Latter-day Saints tradition, the Angel Moroni blowing a trumpet is a familiar symbol of the Restoration and the Book of Mormon. On headstones, it reflects LDS faith and the hope of eternal life.
Om
The Om symbol is sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It represents the sound of the universe, the essence of ultimate reality. On headstones, it reflects a connection to Eastern spiritual traditions and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Nature and Botanical Symbols
Nature symbols are deeply rooted in memorial tradition. Flowers, trees, birds, and other natural elements carry rich meanings that connect the deceased to the cycles of life.
Rose
The rose is the most popular flower on headstones. Its meaning varies with maturity: a full bloom represents a life lived to completion, a rosebud symbolizes a young life cut short, and a broken stem suggests a life ended prematurely. Red roses symbolize love, white roses represent purity, and yellow roses suggest friendship or devotion.
Lily
Lilies represent purity, innocence, and the restored innocence of the soul at death. The Easter lily specifically carries resurrection symbolism. Lilies are common on women's headstones and on memorials for young people.
Oak Tree
The oak symbolizes strength, endurance, and long life. A full oak tree on a headstone often represents someone who was a pillar of their family or community. Oak leaves and acorns carry similar meanings of strength and potential.
Willow Tree
The weeping willow is a classic mourning symbol. Its drooping branches evoke sadness and grief, and it appears on headstones from the 18th century onward. It was especially popular during the Victorian era and remains meaningful today.
Tree of Life
The Tree of Life represents the interconnection of all living things and the cycle of life, death, and renewal. It appears in many spiritual traditions and on headstones for people of diverse faiths or no specific religious affiliation.
Dove
The dove represents peace, the Holy Spirit (in Christianity), and the soul's departure. A dove in flight suggests the soul ascending to heaven. A dove carrying an olive branch adds a layer of peace and reconciliation. Doves are used across religious and secular contexts.
Butterfly
Butterflies symbolize transformation, resurrection, and the soul. The metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly mirrors the transition from earthly life to the afterlife. Butterflies are especially common on women's and children's memorials.
Ivy
Ivy represents fidelity, attachment, and eternal life. Its evergreen nature makes it a symbol of immortality. On headstones, ivy borders or ivy leaves suggest undying love and lasting memory.
Wheat Sheaf
A sheaf of wheat represents a long, fruitful life and the harvest of accomplishments. It is often found on headstones of people who lived to old age, suggesting that their life was fully lived and "gathered in" at the proper time.
Sunflower
The sunflower represents devotion, adoration, and loyalty. It turns to follow the sun, symbolizing faith and spiritual devotion. On headstones, it suggests someone who brought warmth and light into the lives of others.
Military and Service Symbols
Military symbols honor the service and sacrifice of veterans. These symbols are appropriate for anyone who served in the armed forces, and many families choose to include them alongside religious or personal symbols.
Eagle
The American eagle represents patriotism, courage, and freedom. On headstones, it frequently appears for veterans and is also a general symbol of national pride. A bald eagle specifically is tied to American identity and military service.
Anchor
The anchor has a dual meaning. In Christian tradition, it represents hope and steadfastness (drawn from Hebrews 6:19). In military context, it represents naval service. On headstones, the anchor is common for Navy and Coast Guard veterans, as well as for anyone connected to the sea.
American Flag
A flag or flag-draped design on a headstone represents military service, patriotism, and sacrifice. It is appropriate for any veteran, first responder, or public servant. The flag design can range from a small corner element to a larger background motif.
Dog Tags
Military identification tags (dog tags) are a modern headstone symbol that specifically honors military service. They can be engraved with the veteran's name, service number, and branch of service.
Branch of Service Emblems
Each branch of the U.S. military has its own emblem: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force. These official insignia are frequently placed on veterans' headstones and can be combined with other design elements. Veterans' families may also be eligible for government-furnished markers, though many prefer custom memorials for greater design flexibility.
Crossed Swords or Rifles
Crossed swords or rifles represent military combat and valor. They are often seen on headstones of soldiers, officers, and veterans who served in combat zones. This symbol honors courage and willingness to defend.
Family, Love, and Relationship Symbols
These symbols represent the bonds between people. They are especially meaningful on companion markers and family plots.
Clasped Hands
Two hands clasped together represent farewell, unity, and the bond of marriage. On older headstones, the handshake often shows one hand with a cuff (the living) and one without (the deceased), symbolizing the final goodbye. On companion markers for married couples, clasped hands represent the unity that persists beyond death.
Heart
The heart is a universal symbol of love and devotion. A single heart represents love for the deceased. Two interlocking hearts suggest a married couple or deep partnership. A heart with a crack or break can represent grief or a love that endured hardship. Hearts are common on headstones for spouses, partners, and parents. For companion markers, see our guide on companion headstones for couples.
Wedding Rings
Interlinked wedding rings represent marriage and enduring partnership. They are most often found on companion markers for married couples, typically positioned between or above the two names.
Mother and Child
An image of a mother holding a child represents maternal love and nurturing. This symbol is used on headstones for mothers who were defined by their devotion to their children, and also on infant memorials.
Family Tree
A tree with multiple branches represents the family lineage and the person's role as a patriarch or matriarch. It suggests that their legacy lives on through the family they built.
Life, Legacy, and Mortality Symbols
These symbols address the deeper themes of existence, time, and what we leave behind.
Open Book
An open book on a headstone can represent several things: the Bible or another holy text, a love of learning, the "book of life," or the story of the deceased's life laid open for all to see. It is one of the most versatile headstone symbols. At SilkStone, book designs are among our most requested sandblasted templates, available for both single and companion markers.
Hourglass
The hourglass represents the passage of time and mortality. An hourglass with wings (a winged hourglass) suggests that time flies and life is fleeting. It is a classic memento mori symbol that appears on headstones from the colonial period to the present day.
Torch
An upright, burning torch symbolizes eternal life, truth, and the light of knowledge. An inverted or extinguished torch represents the end of life. The torch is common on headstones for educators, scholars, and community leaders.
Lamp or Lantern
A lamp represents knowledge, guidance, and the light that guides the soul. It shares meaning with the torch but has a more domestic, personal quality. It is often used for educators and spiritual leaders.
Candle
A lit candle represents the soul, the light of life, and remembrance. An extinguished candle represents life's end. In Jewish tradition, memorial candles (yahrzeit candles) are lit on the anniversary of a loved one's death, and the candle symbol on a headstone connects to this practice.
Crown
A crown represents victory, sovereignty, and the reward of a faithful life. In Christian contexts, it often refers to the "crown of life" promised in the Book of Revelation. It can also represent royalty of spirit or a life of leadership.
Wreath
A wreath represents victory, eternity (the unbroken circle), and glory. Laurel wreaths specifically honor achievement. On headstones, wreaths often encircle other symbols or initials, adding a sense of honor and completeness.
Scroll
A scroll represents knowledge, the passage of time, and a life's story. Partially unrolled scrolls suggest that the person's story continues beyond death, while a fully open scroll may display a meaningful quote or inscription.
Gate or Archway
An open gate represents the entrance to heaven or the afterlife. It suggests passage from this world to the next and is a symbol of hope and transition. Cemetery gates in particular carry deep symbolic meaning about the boundary between the living and the dead.
Fraternal and Organizational Symbols
Many people belonged to organizations that shaped their lives. Including these symbols on a headstone honors that part of their identity.
Masonic Square and Compass
The square and compass is the primary symbol of Freemasonry. On headstones, it identifies the deceased as a Mason and represents their commitment to the fraternity's values of brotherhood, charity, and moral living. The letter "G" in the center stands for God or geometry.
Eastern Star
The five-pointed star of the Order of the Eastern Star, a Masonic appendant body, represents five Biblical heroines. It is found on headstones of women (and some men) who were members of this organization.
Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus emblem features a shield with a fasces, anchor, dagger, and the letters K of C. On headstones, it identifies the deceased as a member of this Catholic fraternal organization.
Professional or Hobby Symbols
Modern headstones increasingly include symbols of professions or passions: a stethoscope for a doctor, a musical note for a musician, a fishing rod for an avid angler, or a paintbrush for an artist. These personal symbols tell visitors something about who the person was beyond their name and dates.
How to Choose a Symbol
With dozens of options available, choosing the right symbol can feel overwhelming. Here are practical guidelines to narrow your choices:
Start with What Mattered Most
Ask yourself: what defined this person? Was it their faith, their family, their service, their profession, or their connection to nature? The answer usually points you toward the right category. A lifelong Catholic who served in the Navy might have a cross and an anchor. A devoted grandmother who loved her garden might have a rose and a family tree.
Consider the Overall Design
On a 28x16x3in flat marker, you typically have room for one primary symbol and possibly one smaller secondary element. A single, well-chosen symbol is more powerful than several competing images. Less is more on a memorial marker, and the symbol you choose should complement your text, not compete with it.
Think About Your Audience
Who will visit this headstone? If the person's faith community will visit regularly, a recognizable religious symbol provides immediate identification and comfort. If the headstone is in a public cemetery where people of all backgrounds pass by, a more universal symbol (like a dove or an open book) communicates broadly.
Pair Symbols with Words
The right symbol paired with the right epitaph creates a memorial that is greater than the sum of its parts. A dove with "Rest in Peace" reinforces the message of tranquility. Praying hands with a favorite Bible verse creates a cohesive tribute to faith. Browse our 200+ headstone epitaph ideas to find words that complement your chosen symbol.
Check Cemetery Requirements
Some cemeteries have restrictions on headstone designs, particularly regarding size and depth of engraved images. Before finalizing your symbol, confirm with your cemetery that it is permitted. Our cemetery headstone rules guide covers what to ask.
How Symbols Are Engraved on Granite
At SilkStone, all text and symbols are engraved using sandblasting with precision stencils. This method produces clean, deep lines that are durable and readable for generations.
The process works like this: a stencil is cut to match your approved design, including any symbols. The stencil is applied to the polished granite surface, and high-pressure sand is directed through the openings, carving the image into the stone. The depth and detail of the sandblasted symbol can vary based on the complexity of the design.
Simple symbols (crosses, hearts, Stars of David) translate beautifully to sandblasted granite. More intricate designs (detailed angels, realistic portraits, fine line work) may require adjustments to ensure clean engraving. Very thin lines, for example, may not hold up as well as bolder strokes. Your engraver should advise you on what works at the scale of your marker.
The advantage of sandblasting over other methods is consistency and depth. The carved areas are uniformly deep, which means the symbol will remain visible even as the stone weathers over time. Combined with the hardness of Himalayan granite, sandblasted symbols on a SilkStone marker will last for generations.
SilkStone Design Templates
SilkStone offers 51 pre-designed templates across multiple categories, available for both single and companion (double) markers:
- Christian designs: 6 single templates and 3 companion templates, including crosses, angels, and other Christian motifs
- Jewish designs: 5 single templates and 5 companion templates, featuring the Star of David and other Jewish symbols
- Muslim designs: 5 single templates with crescent moon, Islamic calligraphy, and other motifs
- Mormon (LDS) designs: 3 single templates reflecting Latter-day Saint tradition
- Book designs: 6 single and 6 companion templates with open book motifs
- Border designs: 5 single and 6 companion templates with decorative border patterns
You can view all available templates on our design catalogue page. Each design is sandblasted directly into the granite as part of your marker's free engraving. Custom designs beyond our standard catalogue are available for a separate quote.
Every SilkStone order includes a digital proof showing your chosen symbol, text, and layout on your selected granite color before engraving begins. You can request unlimited revisions until you are completely satisfied with the design. No surprises, no guesswork.
Choosing Something Meaningful
The symbol you place on a headstone becomes a permanent part of someone's legacy. It is the first thing visitors see and often the element they remember. Take time to consider what would be most meaningful, not just to you, but to everyone who will visit that marker in the years to come.
SilkStone Memorials offers hand-finished 28x16x3in Himalayan granite flat markers starting at $899, with free custom engraving including symbols and text. Granite sourced from quarries in the Himalayan mountains of Pakistan, shipped fully insured via UPS Ground to all 50 states.
Browse our granite collection or visit our design catalogue to see all available templates.