How Thick Should a Headstone Be? 6" vs 8" Dies Explained

Thickness is easy to overlook when choosing a headstone, but it affects stability, weight, appearance and price. Cemeteries sometimes set a minimum.

Typical thicknesses

Why thickness matters

• Stability — a thicker die has a wider footprint on its base and resists tipping.
• Proportion — tall or wide stones look better, and stand better, at 8".
• Weight — granite weighs roughly 165–175 lb per cubic foot, so 2 extra inches adds a lot. See how much a headstone weighs.
• Cost — more stone, more freight.

Rules of thumb

• Up to about 30" tall: 6" is standard.
• Wider than about 36" or taller than 30": consider 8".
• The base should be at least 4" deeper than the die — commonly 12" for a 6" die.

Flat markers

4" thickness lets a flat marker sit securely flush with the lawn and resist cracking under mowers.

Key Takeaways

• 6" dies are standard for single uprights; 8" for larger companions.
• Thicker stones are more stable but heavier and costlier.
• Bases should be several inches deeper than the die.

Next Step

See full headstone sizes and dimensions, or pick a size in the Design Studio.