Everything Families Ask (and What They Should)
Choosing a tombstone for a loved one is never easy. It’s a deeply personal decision that combines emotion, tradition, and practical planning. At Swiss Stone Masons, we’ve guided thousands of families through this delicate process, and over the years, we’ve noticed many of the same questions being asked.
This guide answers the most common questions families ask, and a few they should ask, to ensure your choices are informed, meaningful, and lasting.
1. How long after the burial should we install a tombstone?
This is one of the first, and most frequent, questions we receive.
Typically, families wait 6 to 12 months after burial before installing a tombstone. This allows the ground to settle properly, especially with traditional in-ground burials.
However, timelines can vary based on cultural or religious customs. Some prefer unveiling ceremonies a year after the funeral, while others install headstones much sooner in above-ground or cement-based gravesites.
Swiss Stone Masons Tip: Book a consultation early, this gives you time to make design decisions and avoid delays when the time is right.
2. What types of tombstones are available?
Tombstones come in a wide variety of styles, shapes, and materials.
The most common include:
-
Upright headstones: Traditional, vertical stones mounted on a base.
-
Flat/desk stones: Lie flush or angled on the ground.
-
Double or companion stones: For two individuals buried side by side.
-
Custom designs: Sculpted, engraved, or uniquely shaped to reflect the person’s life.
Swiss Stone Masons Promise: We offer both traditional and modern memorials, crafted from granite, marble, or quartz, cut to size and tailored to your vision.
3. What should we include in the inscription?
This is where many families feel overwhelmed, but it’s also where love and legacy shine through.
Common elements include:
-
Full name and lifespan
-
A heartfelt message or quote
-
Religious symbols or scripture
-
Family titles (“Beloved Mother & Grandmother”)
-
Images, icons, or laser-etched portraits
Swiss Stone Masons Advice: Take your time. Choose words that reflect their character and bring comfort to those who visit.
4. How much does a tombstone cost?
Tombstone pricing depends on material, size, design complexity, and installation requirements.
Entry-level stones may cost a few thousand rand, while larger, custom-cut memorials with decorative engraving or imported granite can be higher.
At Swiss Stone Masons, we work within your budget, helping you prioritise what's meaningful without compromising on quality or dignity.
Important Note: Always ask what is included, material, engraving, installation, and transport can all affect final pricing.
5. What should we ask before choosing a supplier?
Families often ask about material and price, but here’s what they should also ask:
-
Do you provide a physical mock-up or preview?
-
What is the turnaround time from approval to installation?
-
Do you offer aftercare or maintenance services?
-
Is your stone locally sourced or imported?
-
Are you familiar with cemetery regulations?
Swiss Stone Masons Support: We’re here to answer every question, even the ones you’re not sure how to ask. Our compassionate team is ready to guide you through every step.
6. Can tombstones be restored or upgraded over time?
Absolutely. Over time, even quality tombstones may experience weathering, moss buildup, or fading inscriptions.
Swiss Stone Masons offer:
-
Tombstone cleaning and polishing
-
Re-lettering or gold leaf restoration
-
Repairs and structural re-setting
-
Additions to existing stones (e.g., another name or inscription)
Preserve their memory, preserve the stone. We restore with care and respect, because remembrance should last.
Final Thought: Choose with Confidence, Honour with Love
At Swiss Stone Masons, we believe that every tombstone tells a story, not just of a life lived, but of the love that remains. With over 25 years of experience, we’re honoured to walk with you through this part of the journey.
