Rustic Boulder Headstones: A Guide

Boulder memorials look as if they've always been part of the landscape. A rough natural stone with a single polished face suits outdoorsy people, farmers, cottagers and anyone who preferred the natural to the formal.

Types of boulder memorials

• Natural fieldstone — a true boulder, shaped only by nature.
• Rough-cut granite — quarried stone with rock-pitched sides.
• Boulder with polished panel — one face polished for lettering.
• Boulder with bronze plaque — the stone left fully natural.

See granite finishes.

Engraving a boulder

Polished panels take sandblasted lettering and laser etching just like a standard headstone. Rough surfaces can be engraved directly in bold, deep letters, but fine detail and portraits need a polished area. A bronze plaque is another good option on very rough stone.

Cemetery rules

Because no two boulders are alike, cemeteries may ask for:

• Exact dimensions and weight.
• A flat bottom so it sits securely on the foundation.
• Approval of the shape before installation.

Some lawn sections don't allow boulders at all. See cemetery headstone rules.

Installation

Boulders are heavy and irregular, so they need a solid foundation and careful setting. The bottom is usually sawn flat. Many families also use boulders on private land — see memorial stones at a cottage or lake.

Check your price

For a live estimate, design your memorial in the Design Studio and use Check Price, or request a quote for an itemised price.

Key Takeaways

• Boulders suit natural, outdoorsy personalities.
• A polished panel allows fine lettering and portraits.
• Cemeteries may need dimensions and shape approval.
• The base is sawn flat for secure setting.

Next Step

See headstone ideas for a nature lover.