Traditional Monument Tutorial

Monument Shape (Face)

Although the standard shape for a monument is rectangular, granite monuments can be cut in any shape imaginable. To create a one of a kind monument, we generally start with a rectangular monument with flat faces (front and back) and start modifying the top and side contours.

Monument Shape (Top)

The two most common cuts are the straight and serp tops. Tops can also be cut with an oval, roof, ridge, and apex shape. The following table shows a graphic representation of each option.

Monument Shape Options (Top)
Straight Top Serp Top Roof Top
Oval Top Ridge Top Apex Top

Monument Shape (Sides)

Sides are usually cut straight although a cost effective alternative is the tapered end option. Fancier cuts include the convex, concave, single nosing, and double nosing end. The following table shows a graphic representation of each option.

Monument Shape Options (Sides)
Straight Sides Tapered Sides Concave Sides
Convex Sides Single Nosing Sides Double Nosing Sides

TUTORIAL TIP

Shaping a monument's top or sides is a cost effective way to set your monument apart.