If you have started researching memorials for a loved one, you have probably noticed that the terminology can be confusing. Headstone, grave marker, plaque, monument, tombstone, memorial. These words are sometimes used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different things.
Understanding the differences matters for a practical reason: your cemetery may require a specific type of memorial. Ordering a headstone when your cemetery only allows flat markers, or buying a plaque when they require granite, means you could end up with something you cannot use.
This guide defines each type of memorial clearly, explains how they differ, and helps you figure out which one is appropriate for your situation.
Why Terminology Matters
The words you use when talking to a cemetery, a memorial company, or a funeral director determine what everyone thinks you want. If you ask for a "headstone" when you mean a "flat marker," you may be quoted for an upright monument that costs twice as much and is not allowed at your cemetery.
Cemetery regulations often specify exactly which types of memorials are permitted. Some sections allow only flat markers. Others require upright headstones. Some accept bronze plaques but not granite. Knowing the correct term helps you communicate clearly and avoid costly mistakes.
Each term has a specific meaning worth understanding.
Headstones
A headstone is a broad term for any memorial placed at the head of a grave. In common usage, "headstone" often refers to an upright stone monument, but the term technically encompasses both upright and flat memorials.
Upright headstones
When most people picture a headstone, they imagine an upright slab of granite or marble standing vertically at the head of a grave. Upright headstones are the traditional style found in older cemeteries and offer the most visible memorial in a cemetery setting.
- Material: Usually granite, sometimes marble. Granite is the modern standard because it resists weathering far longer than marble.
- Size: Varies widely. Common sizes range from 24 inches wide to 48 inches or more for companion headstones.
- Cost: Typically $2,000 to $5,000+ depending on size, material, and engraving.
- Installation: Requires a concrete foundation, which adds $300 to $600 in additional cost.
- Cemetery acceptance: Not all cemeteries allow upright headstones. Many modern memorial parks and lawn cemeteries require flat markers only for ease of maintenance.
Flat headstones (flat markers)
A flat headstone, commonly called a flat marker, lies flat on the ground at the head of a grave. These are the most widely accepted type of memorial in cemeteries across the country.
- Material: Granite is the standard. Bronze on a granite base is also common.
- Size: Common sizes include 24x12in, 28x16in, and variations. The 28x16x3in size is one of the most popular standards.
- Cost: Typically $800 to $3,000 depending on the retailer, material, and engraving.
- Installation: Usually placed directly on the ground or on a simple concrete pad. Setting fees are lower than for upright headstones.
- Cemetery acceptance: Accepted by nearly all cemeteries, including those that do not allow upright headstones.
For a detailed comparison of flat versus upright options, see our flat vs. upright headstones guide.
Grave Markers
A grave marker is a memorial that marks the location of a burial. In practice, "grave marker" most often refers to a flat memorial that sits at or near ground level. The terms "grave marker" and "flat marker" are frequently used interchangeably.
What distinguishes a grave marker
- Position: Grave markers are typically flat or very low to the ground. They do not stand upright.
- Material: Can be granite, bronze, marble, or other durable materials. Granite and bronze are the most common.
- Purpose: Identifies the person buried at that location. Includes name, dates, and often a brief inscription or emblem.
- Size: Varies by cemetery requirements. Standard sizes like 28x16x3in are widely accepted.
Granite flat markers
Granite flat markers are the most popular type of grave marker. They are durable, weather-resistant, and hold engraved detail clearly for generations. Granite is available in many colors, from classic gray and deep black to unique varieties with natural veining.
Bronze flat markers
Bronze markers are metal plaques typically mounted on a granite or concrete base. They offer a distinctive appearance and are standard at some cemeteries, particularly those affiliated with certain memorial park chains. Bronze markers require periodic maintenance to prevent tarnishing.
For a material comparison, read our granite vs. marble vs. bronze guide.
Plaques
A plaque is a flat, typically metal memorial that is mounted on a base or structure. Plaques differ from headstones and grave markers in material and how they are used.
Types of plaques
- Bronze grave plaques. The most common type. A cast or engraved bronze plate mounted on a granite or concrete base. Used at grave sites in place of (or in addition to) a granite marker.
- Columbarium plaques. Small bronze or granite plaques placed on columbarium niches to identify cremated remains. These are typically 8x10in or 12x12in.
- Mausoleum plaques. Placed on mausoleum crypts to identify the interred. Can be bronze, granite, or marble.
- Memorial garden plaques. Smaller plaques placed in memorial gardens, on benches, or on walls. These may or may not mark a burial location.
Key differences from headstones and markers
- Material: Plaques are usually metal (bronze or aluminum). Headstones and flat markers are usually stone (granite or marble).
- Size: Plaques are generally smaller than full-size grave markers. A standard grave plaque may be 16x24in or 12x18in, compared to a 28x16in flat marker.
- Mounting: Plaques are mounted on a base, wall, or structure. Flat markers sit directly on the ground or on a pad.
- Cost: Bronze plaques typically range from $500 to $2,000, plus the cost of a granite base if required.
- Maintenance: Bronze requires periodic cleaning and may develop a patina over time. Granite requires minimal maintenance.
Other Terms You May Encounter
The memorial industry uses several other terms that are worth understanding:
Tombstone
"Tombstone" is an older word that originally referred to the stone slab covering a tomb or grave. Today, it is used informally as a synonym for "headstone." In the memorial industry, professionals typically use "headstone" or "marker" rather than "tombstone."
Monument
A monument is a large memorial, usually an upright headstone or a custom structure like an obelisk, angel statue, or family memorial. Monuments are the most expensive type of grave memorial and are not permitted at many modern cemeteries.
Memorial
"Memorial" is the broadest term. It refers to anything created to remember a deceased person: a headstone, marker, plaque, bench, tree, donation, or ceremony. In the context of grave markers, "memorial" is a catch-all that can mean any type of physical marker.
Ledger
A ledger is a large, flat stone that covers the entire surface of a grave. Ledgers are typically 4 to 6 feet long and 2 to 3 feet wide. They are more expensive than standard flat markers because of the larger amount of stone required.
Slant marker
A slant marker sits at an angle on a base, with the front face tilted upward for easier reading. It is a middle ground between a flat marker and an upright headstone. Slant markers are not as common as flat or upright styles and are not accepted at all cemeteries.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Upright Headstone | Flat Marker | Plaque (Bronze) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Granite, marble | Granite, bronze on base | Bronze, aluminum |
| Position | Vertical, standing | Flat, ground level | Mounted on base or structure |
| Typical size | 24 to 48+ inches wide | 24x12in to 28x16in | 12x18in to 16x24in |
| Cost range | $2,000 to $5,000+ | $800 to $3,000 | $500 to $2,000 + base |
| Foundation required | Yes ($300 to $600) | Sometimes ($100 to $300) | Base included or extra |
| Maintenance | Low (granite) | Low (granite) | Moderate (bronze patina) |
| Cemetery acceptance | Many, not all | Nearly all | Varies by cemetery |
| Engraving depth | Deep (sandblasted) | Deep (sandblasted) | Raised or recessed lettering |
Which One Is Right for You?
The right choice depends on three factors: your cemetery's requirements, your budget, and your personal preferences.
If your cemetery requires flat markers
Many modern cemeteries, particularly memorial parks and lawn-style cemeteries, require flat markers for all graves. In this case, a granite flat marker is your primary option. The standard 28x16x3in size is widely accepted and provides ample space for names, dates, and a personalized inscription.
SilkStone Memorials offers 28x16x3in flat granite markers starting at $899 with free custom engraving. For a complete guide to this size, see our 28x16x3in flat granite headstone buyer's guide.
If your cemetery allows upright headstones
Upright headstones are more visible and offer a larger surface for engraving and artwork. They also cost more and require a concrete foundation. If your cemetery allows both types and budget is not a constraint, the choice is personal preference. Many families prefer the timeless look of an upright headstone, while others appreciate the clean simplicity of a flat marker.
If you need a plaque
Plaques are appropriate for columbarium niches, mausoleum crypts, or cemeteries that specifically require bronze markers. If you are placing a memorial in one of these settings, a plaque is likely what you need. Ask your cemetery or mausoleum for their specific requirements on material, size, and mounting.
If budget is the primary concern
Flat granite markers are the most affordable full-size memorial option. They use less material than upright headstones, cost less to ship, and have lower setting fees. For families on a tight budget, a granite flat marker with included engraving offers the most value. Read our guide to the cheapest headstones under $1,000 for specific options.
What Your Cemetery May Require
Before purchasing any type of memorial, contact your cemetery and ask the following:
- What types of memorials are allowed? Upright headstones, flat markers, bronze plaques, or specific types only?
- What are the size restrictions? Maximum and minimum dimensions for width, height, and thickness.
- What materials are accepted? Granite, marble, bronze, or specific types only?
- Is a foundation required? If so, who provides it and what does it cost?
- What is the setting fee? The charge for installing the marker at the grave site.
- Can you purchase the memorial from any retailer? Cemeteries cannot generally require you to buy from them, but they may have specific rules about third-party markers.
For a more detailed checklist, read our cemetery headstone rules guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a headstone the same as a grave marker?
The terms overlap but are not identical. "Headstone" is a general term for any memorial at the head of a grave (upright or flat). "Grave marker" usually refers specifically to a flat, ground-level memorial. In casual conversation, they are often used interchangeably.
What is the difference between a headstone and a tombstone?
There is no meaningful difference. "Tombstone" is an older, more informal word for the same thing. The memorial industry typically uses "headstone" or "marker" as the standard terminology.
Is a plaque the same as a flat marker?
No. A plaque is usually a metal plate (bronze or aluminum) mounted on a base. A flat marker is usually a full slab of granite placed directly on the ground. They serve a similar purpose but differ in material, appearance, and durability characteristics.
Which type lasts the longest?
Granite headstones and flat markers have the longest lifespan with the least maintenance. Granite is naturally resistant to weathering, staining, and erosion. Bronze requires periodic cleaning and will develop a patina over time. Marble is durable but softens and weathers more quickly than granite.
What does SilkStone Memorials sell?
SilkStone sells flat granite markers in the standard 28x16x3in size. These are granite flat markers (also called flat headstones or grave markers) engraved using sandblasting with stencils. Available in our Himalayan granite colors: Himalayan Gray at $899, K2 Black at $999, and Midnight Gold at $1,499. Every marker includes free custom engraving and ships insured via UPS Ground. Browse our collection.