Upright Headstones

Upright Headstone Designs and Styles

Upright headstones are the most recognizable style of cemetery memorial — a standing granite monument that rises above the gravesite and serves as a lasting tribute. Our collection includes a wide range of upright headstone designs, from classic serpentine-top shapes to modern monolith profiles, teardrop silhouettes, and book-shaped monuments. Whether you prefer a traditional look or something more distinctive, we carry unique headstones in styles that reflect any personality or life story.

Cross and Religious Designs feature etched or carved crosses, praying hands, and scripture motifs — among the most popular upright headstone choices for families of faith. Nature and Scenic Designs showcase mountain landscapes, eagles in flight, roses, sunflowers, and woodland scenes that celebrate an outdoor life. Modern and Geometric Profiles include clean monolith shapes, pyramid tops, and contemporary silhouettes for families who want a distinctive memorial. Browse our full selection to find headstone design ideas and inspiration for the perfect memorial.

Granite Colors and Materials

Every upright head stone we offer is crafted from natural granite, one of the most durable and weather-resistant materials available for outdoor memorials. Our granite headstones for graves come in a variety of colors to match your preference and cemetery requirements. Grey Granite is the most traditional and widely accepted option, offering a clean, classic appearance that complements any cemetery setting. Black Granite provides a striking contrast that makes etched designs and lettering stand out with exceptional clarity. Red and Mahogany Granite offer a warm, distinctive look that sets the memorial apart, while Green Granite delivers a rich, earthy tone that blends naturally with landscaped grounds. To learn more about how different stone types compare, visit our guide on what headstones are made of.

Single and Companion Upright Monuments

We offer single upright headstones designed for an individual gravesite as well as larger companion monuments intended for couples or family members sharing a plot. Single Monuments typically feature one person's name, dates, and a selected emblem or design, and are available in a range of sizes to meet specific cemetery regulations. Companion Monuments are wider upright headstones that accommodate information for two individuals on a shared base — a popular choice for married couples who plan to be interred together. Some companion designs feature separate wing panels mounted on a single base, creating a paired memorial that reflects two lives joined together. For more on choosing the right companion option, see our guide to double headstones for couples.

Choosing the Right Upright Headstone

Cemetery Requirements: Before ordering, check with your cemetery about size restrictions, foundation requirements, and approved granite colors. Many cemeteries have specific sections designated for upright monuments versus flat markers. Memorials.com performs a cemetery verification and size check on every order before production begins, so your upright headstone will meet all local regulations.

Size and Dimensions: Upright headstones consist of two main pieces — the die (the standing portion) and the base. Standard single monuments are typically 24 inches wide by 6 inches thick, while companion monuments run wider. For detailed measurements and cemetery-specific guidance, see our headstone size guide.

Custom Engraving: Every upright headstone includes names, dates, and your choice from over 10,000 emblem options — from crosses and praying hands to nature scenes, military insignia, and hobby designs. Additional lettering and premium design upgrades are available. Our team sends a full layout for your approval before any work begins.

Budget: Upright headstone pricing depends on size, granite color, and engraving complexity. Single monuments start at a lower price point than companion designs. Standard granite colors are included in the listed price, while premium colors may carry an additional cost. For a full breakdown, read our headstone cost guide.

Upright Headstones vs. Other Memorial Styles

Upright headstones are the tallest and most prominent type of grave memorial. If your cemetery requires a flush-to-ground marker instead, browse our flat grave markers or bronze grave markers. For a compromise between flat and fully upright, slant gravestones offer an angled profile that provides visibility while meeting stricter cemetery guidelines. Families choosing cremation may also consider cremation headstones with built-in urn compartments. For a detailed comparison of styles, visit our article on flat vs. upright headstones.

Free Shipping on All Upright Headstones

Every upright headstone from Memorials.com ships free to all 48 continental United States. We also ship to Alaska, Hawaii, and international destinations — contact our customer service team for a shipping quote. If you are searching for upright headstones near me, our nationwide delivery means you can order from anywhere and have your monument delivered directly. Our ordering process includes a full cemetery verification, a personalized layout proof for your approval, and decades of experience ensuring every head stone meets cemetery standards. Browse our complete collection of upright headstones to find the right memorial for your family.