Monograms on Headstones

A monogram — interlaced initials — adds elegance and personality to a headstone. It's a classic touch on Victorian monuments and works beautifully on modern stones too.

Types of monogram

• Single initial — a large decorative letter.
• Three-letter monogram — first, middle and last initials.
• Couple's monogram — two first initials with a shared surname initial.
• Family monogram — the surname initial on a family monument.

Styles

• Traditional script — flowing and formal.
• Victorian interlaced — ornate and historic.
• Modern block — clean and minimal.
• Within a wreath or circle — see wreath meaning.

Placement

• Top centre of an upright.
• On the back of a stone with a busy front.
• On a family monument above the surname.
• On a footstone — see footstones guide.

Tips

Keep the monogram large enough to read — 4 inches or more. Check the order of letters: in a traditional three-letter monogram, the surname initial often sits larger in the middle. Have the proof checked carefully. See headstone fonts.

Monograms with portraits

A monogram can frame or sit beneath an etched portrait, giving a formal, elegant look — much like a family crest. On a couple's stone, two monograms can sit beneath two portraits, or a single shared monogram between them. Keep monogram lines bold enough to stay crisp outdoors, especially on grey granite, where fine detail is harder to see than on black. See family crest on a headstone.

Key Takeaways

• Monograms add elegance and personality.
• Styles range from script to modern block.
• They suit family monuments and footstones.
• Check letter order and size carefully.

Next Step

See family crest on a headstone.