• Choosing a headstone for yourself or a loved one is a solemn task. There are a number of ideas for headstones that go beyond the traditional shape. Consider a headstone that is as unique as you are to act as a last reminder of you here on Earth. Whether your tastes are religious or silly, you can find a maker to design a unique headstone for you. Before you make any commitment, be sure to check with the headstone regulations at your cemetery--there may be size or shape restrictions.
  
  

Shape

• While a half-round or square top is the most traditional shape for a headstone, you can choose from many designs, including hearts and double hearts, crosses, scrolls and books. If you will be buried with your spouse, consider a split headstone, which is two headstones that form one.
  
  

Material

• The most common headstone material is granite, often because it is the cheapest to use. Headstone makers can also use marble, slate or limestone as well. Additionally, you can specify the type of finish that they use. For example, a polished stone will be shiny, while a rustic stone will look unfinished and natural.
  
  

Symbols

• Makers can engrave the symbol of your choice on the headstone. If you're a religious person, you may want to engrave a cross or a Star of David. A nature lover can consider an outdoor motif such a mountain scene. You could also engrave something like a butterfly which symbolizes the soul, or a dragon which symbolizes the universe in Chinese culture. Different types of flowers have different meanings--a lily symbolizes purity while ivy symbolizes eternal life.
  
  

Inscriptions

• Choose an inscription that has meaning for your life. This could be a quote from your favorite piece of literature such as "Knowledge by suffering entereth, and life is perfected by death." by Elizabeth Barret Browning or a religious verse such as, "Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil." from Psalms. Some choose to inscribe a funny quote on their headstone to help others remember them fondly.
  
  

Family Headstones

• A headstone doesn't need to be just for one person. You can use it to represent a couple or an entire family. Make sure that it's large enough to hold everyone's names. You'll want to engrave the names, but leave the dates open.