Headstones
Beautiful headstones handcrafted by our master stonemasons.
We will be happy to discuss your unique needs and offer our expert advice to help you mark the resting place of your loved one accordingly.
Headstones
When we walk through a cemetery, our eyes are drawn to the headstones that stand as silent sentinels, marking the final resting places of those who have departed.
These grave markers hold a deeper significance beyond their physical presence. They are a testament to lives lived, stories untold, and emotions that continue to resonate with us.
Each headstone is unique and symbolises an amazing life that has been lived, and consequentially lost. Our expert gravestone stonemasons will advise you on which headstone is most fitting for your needs in accordance with your preferences, budget, and size restrictions.
Preserving precious memories. Get in touch with our professional stonemasons who will advise you on which headstone will be best for your needs.
Gravestone History
Headstones, also known as gravestones or tombstones, have served as markers of burial sites for centuries. They not only commemorate the deceased but also offer insights into the culture, beliefs, and aesthetics of the era in which they were created.
Early Irish headstones were often simple stone slabs with inscriptions in Ogham script, an ancient writing system used in Ireland. These inscriptions typically featured the name of the deceased, their lineage, and perhaps a brief message. As Christianity spread across Ireland, the use of Celtic crosses and Christian symbols began to appear on headstones, reflecting the fusion of pagan and Christian influences.
During the medieval period, elaborate stone crosses, known as high crosses, became popular as grave markers. These crosses were adorned with intricate carvings depicting biblical scenes and religious figures. They not only served as memorials but also as tools for teaching the faith to those who couldn’t read. These Celtic crosses are still utilised throughout graveyards today, as their timeless signatory acts as a cultural laurel for those who lie beneath them.
Designing a Headstone
We have three main collections of headstones, each of which can be created from a variety of stone types. The type of stone which you select for your loved ones grave is important, particularly when it will be exposed to inclement Irish weather.
Marble: renowned for its timeless beauty and smooth honed surface, marble will add an air of sophistication to any memorial. It should be noted however that over time, marble is more susceptible to weathering and erosion, as it is a porous stone.It would need regular cleaning and maintenance to preserve it’s aesthetic appeal in comparison to more dense stones like granite or limestone.
Granite: Granite is one of the most durable natural stones, for best resistance to weathering, staining, and scratching, ensuring long-lasting memorials. It has gained momentous popularity here in Ireland in recent years, as its highly polished finish is eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing.
Limestone: Limestone exudes a warm and inviting aura with its natural texture and earthy tones, creating a tranquil memorial setting. Its softness allows for intricate carvings and details, enabling personalised designs, however limestone is porous, making it susceptible to moisture absorption, which can lead to weathering and deterioration over time.
Slate: Slate’s muted tones and smooth texture offer a subtle and understated elegance, fitting for both modern and traditional designs. Its fine-grain surface allows for precise and intricate engravings, ensuring an accurate representation of sentiments, but should be handled with care as slate is renowned for being brittle.
Our master stonemasons will help pick the right stone to honour your loved one. Get in touch and our dedicated team will guide you on the right path.
The Millennium Collection
The Timeless Collection
The Cross Collection
Headstones FAQs
What materials are commonly used for headstones?
Common materials for headstones include granite, marble, limestone, and slate. Granite is particularly popular due to its durability and range of available colours.
How much can I expect to pay for a headstone?
Prices for headstones vary depending on their size, complexity, and type, but we will do our best to provide a headstone that caters to your needs and is within budget.
As a rough estimate and a guide for a headstone and base you can pay anywhere from €700 - €1600 and a headstone and surround set anywhere from €1800 - €3500.
Can I personalise a headstone?
Yes, you can personalise a headstone with the type of stone, and design elements (such as symbols or emblems) you can also add a ceramic photograph, or even by selecting a meaningful inscription or quote.