Slant Gravestones

What Are Slant Gravestones?

A slant grave marker is a granite memorial that sits at an angle on a cemetery plot, rising from a low back edge to a taller front face. This angled profile gives slanted headstones more visible surface area than a flat grave marker while maintaining a lower, more grounded profile than a full upright headstone. Slant gravestones are carved from solid blocks of natural granite, with each face hand-finished — the front polished smooth for engraving and the sides either sanded or rock-pitched for a textured, natural appearance. For a closer look at how these styles compare, see our guide to headstone vs. grave marker differences.

Slant Headstone Designs and Styles

Single Slant Headstones: The most common slant headstone design is the single slant marker, sized for one individual. These feature a polished front face with space for names, dates, a personal inscription, and an optional emblem. Single slant headstones work well in cemeteries that restrict upright monuments but allow markers with more height than a flush-mounted stone.

Slant Headstone With Base: A slant headstone with base includes a separate granite foundation piece that elevates the marker several inches above ground level. The base adds height and visual presence while providing a flat surface where families can place flowers or small keepsakes. Bases are available in matching or contrasting granite colors and can be sized for optional vase attachments.

Double Slant Headstones: Designed for couples or companions, double slant markers offer a wider face to accommodate two sets of names and dates. These are a practical choice for families purchasing a shared plot, and they can be personalized with individual emblems on each side of the stone.

Specialty Slant Headstone Designs: Beyond the standard rectangular profile, slant gravestones are available in shaped and themed designs. Open-book and bible-shaped slant markers are popular for families who want a religious or literary motif. Custom-shaped slant grave markers can also incorporate curved tops, heart accents, or other distinctive silhouettes. For ideas on meaningful symbols and images to include, browse our guide to headstone symbols and their meanings.

Choosing the Right Slant Marker

Granite Color: Every slant marker headstone is available in a selection of standard granite colors, including gray, black, and rose. Premium granite colors are available at an additional cost — contact our customer service team for pricing on specific color options.

Personalization: All slant headstone designs include engraving for names, dates of birth and death, and a short inscription of up to 15 characters at no additional charge. Over 10,000 emblem options — including crosses, praying hands, flowers, military insignia, and hobby-related images — can be added to any design. For guidance on choosing the right words, see our article on beautiful words to put on a headstone. For engraving pricing details, see our guide on headstone engraving costs.

Cemetery Requirements: Before placing any order, Memorials.com performs a complimentary cemetery verification and size check to confirm that a slant marker meets your cemetery's regulations. Many cemeteries have specific rules about marker height, base dimensions, and allowable materials — our team handles this process so your memorial is approved before production begins. For more on what cemeteries typically require, see our article on cemetery regulations for markers.

Layout Approval: After your order is placed and cemetery requirements are confirmed, you will receive a digital layout proof showing exactly how your slant headstone will look with your chosen text, emblems, and design elements. No memorial goes into production until you review and approve the layout.

Why Choose a Slanted Headstone?

Slanted headstones occupy a middle ground between flat markers and upright monuments, making them one of the most versatile options for cemetery memorialization. The angled face is easier to read than a flush-mounted marker — visitors can see the inscription without bending down — while the compact profile satisfies cemeteries that restrict tall upright stones. Granite is naturally resistant to weathering, cracking, and fading, so a slant grave marker will maintain its appearance for generations with minimal maintenance. For families considering other monument styles, we also carry ledger grave markers and cremation grave markers.

Free Shipping on All Slant Grave Markers

Every slant marker from Memorials.com ships free to all 48 contiguous United States. Shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, and international destinations is available at an additional cost — contact our customer service team for a quote. We also offer expedited production for families working within a service timeline. From cemetery verification through layout approval to delivery, our team supports you through every step of the process. For questions about installation, base additions, vase attachments, or premium granite colors, call our customer service office for a personalized quote.