When people think of memorial materials, granite and wood (natural burials) often steal the spotlight. But there is another material that deserves just as much recognition—slate. Often overlooked, slate is a truly fantastic option for memorials, offering a unique combination of durability, beauty, and affordability. It is also allowed in some natural burial grounds. (Always check with the church or burial ground on what is allowed before purchasing a plaque).
The Longevity of Slate
The Longevity of SlateOne of the greatest advantages of slate is its longevity. This natural stone is highly resistant to weathering, capable of withstanding the elements for centuries. Unlike softer stones such as sandstone or limestone, slate does not erode as quickly, ensuring that inscriptions remain legible and the memorial retains its dignity for generations. If you opt for painted letters these may need touching up from time to time.
Aesthetic Appeal
Slate possesses an understated elegance that sets it apart. Its smooth, fine-grained texture and deep, rich colours—ranging from classic grey to deep blue and even green—create a striking yet timeless look. The natural markings of the stone including unique markings, pyrite and fools gold only add to its natural appeal.
Affordability Without Compromise
While granite is often seen as the gold standard for memorials, it can be quite costly. Slate, on the other hand, offers many of the same benefits at a more affordable price. It provides a high-quality, long-lasting tribute without the hefty price tag, making it an excellent choice for those looking to balance quality and budget.
Why Slate Deserves More Recognition
Why Slate Deserves More RecognitionDespite its many benefits, slate remains an underrated choice for memorials. It offers durability, beauty, and cost-effectiveness—qualities that make it an ideal material for honouring loved ones. Whether used for headstones, plaques, or other memorial tributes, slate is a material that stands the test of time, both in strength and sentiment.
So next time you consider a memorial, think beyond granite and wood—slate might just be the perfect, unsung hero for your tribute.
If you’re seeking a vibrant, full-colour memorial, we also offer tough print plaques that can be inset into the slate for lasting colour. For smaller slate plaques, we can drill holes for wall mounting, or you can choose from our range of wrought iron plaque holders to display the memorial. For slate memorials placed on the ground, we recommend using slate risers to gently slope the plaque, preventing water from pooling in the engravings and prolonging the life of the paint.
Granite Memorials
What sets granite apart from slate, however, is its ability to feature impact-engraved images. This process creates high-quality, detailed images that are surface engraved onto the stone, perfect for including photographs on the memorial. Additionally, granite can be honed to meet churchyard regulations that restrict polished surfaces, although this is not typically our preferred option.
