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Design Guide 3 min read
Lily on a Headstone: Meaning of Purity and Resurrection
What lilies on headstones mean — purity, innocence and resurrection — the Easter lily and calla lily, and ideas for using lilies on a memorial.
After the rose, the lily is the most popular flower on headstones.
What it means
| Variation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lily | Purity and innocence |
| Easter lily | Resurrection and new life |
| Lily of the valley | Humility and renewal |
| Calla lily | Elegance and rebirth |
| Lily with the Virgin Mary | Marian devotion |
History
Lilies have long been linked with the Virgin Mary and with Easter, which is why they appear on so many Christian memorials. Victorian families also used them widely for women and young people.
Using it on a new headstone
- Carved lilies framing the inscription.
- A single lily stem beside the name.
- See design ideas for women.
Key Takeaways
- Lilies mean purity and resurrection.
- Easter and calla lilies carry their own meanings.
- Carving gives lilies depth on any granite.
Next Step
Explore more in our headstone symbols guide, or add a symbol in the Design Studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a lily on a gravestone mean?
Purity, innocence and, especially for the Easter lily, resurrection.
Are lilies only for women's headstones?
No, though they are popular for women. Their meaning suits anyone.
What does a calla lily symbolise?
Elegance and rebirth.
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