Advice and examples for headstone inscriptions: choosing the right words and avoiding mistakes

After the death of a loved one, when we are creating epitaphs or inscriptions on a headstone, the right words must be chosen that serve as a reminder and tribute. These phrases are engraved on the stone so we must avoid mistakes. In this article, Áltima will help you make the best choices and offer you some examples of headstone inscriptions.

How to choose the perfect inscription for a headstone

Headstone inscriptions are meant to honour the memory of our loved one so we must think carefully about the details of their life that we want them to be remembered by. These dedications are made out of respect and affection for the deceased person so what you decide on should not be taken lightly.

It is common to include a drawing or figure on headstone inscriptions. These may include religious motifs such as crosses, or natural elements such as flowers, birds or sheafs of wheat. Your choice may depend on family preferences which are often linked to religious beliefs.

The details of the deceased person are also included as well as initials such as RIP which means rest in peace.

Lastly, the most complicated thing to choose on the headstone inscription is a phrase that serves as a remembrance of your deceased family member.

Advice for choosing the right words and phrases

Being original or even humorous when it comes to choosing phrases for headstone inscriptions is not always easy. So here are some tips for choosing the right words for your loved one:

• Include important details about your loved one: their full name and the dates of their birth and death is information that should not be missing from the inscription.

• In the phrase of remembrance, try to make it a meaningful phrase or a famous quote that reflects the personality and values of the person who has passed away.

• If you include images, symbols or decorative elements, make sure they reflect your loved one's interests or beliefs and also aim to give them a personal and emotional touch.

• Personalise your message as much as possible to give it real meaning and value, in a way that conveys a special message.

• If you choose a phrase, use a part of a poem or a religious quote based on the deceased person's beliefs. In this way, even if they are not personalised words, they will have a link to that person.

• Include a personalised touch such as a photograph of your loved one, a symbol that represents their legacy or an organisation to which they belonged. Coats of arms are usually the most common element in this case.

Keep this advice in mind when choosing headstone inscriptions and, if you have any doubts, always ask a professional who will be able to provide you with further tips.

Common mistakes to avoid when choosing headstone inscriptions

As we have already pointed out, when choosing inscriptions on headstones we must remember that since the words are engraved, it is essential that we do not make any mistakes. What mistakes should be avoided?

 

• Choosing the wrong colours and typography for the inscription could convey the wrong message and reflect feelings that are not at all similar to those experienced after the death of a loved one. Therefore, it is best to opt for soft tones that convey calm or even bright colours if you want to celebrate the life of the deceased person.

• Do not leave blank spaces as this will make the headstone appear empty and if someone were to put a bouquet of flowers over the inscription, it may be enough to hide part of the message. It also prevents other people from adding their tributes or other details to remember the person who has passed away.

• Choosing very long or complex phrases can dilute the message you want to convey. Simplicity and brevity are essential so that headstone inscriptions can be read and understood at first glance.

• Failure to check headstone inscriptions properly may lead to unfortunate mistakes. A typing error or misspelling could be forever etched on the headstone, diverting attention from what is really important. Always check the texts before confirming them to the funeral company responsible for carrying out the inscription.

Examples of headstone inscriptions

We know that choosing the right headstone inscriptions is not always easy and that in the moments after the death of a loved one it can be very difficult to find the inspiration to choose the right phrase. To help with this, here are some examples of beautiful headstone inscriptions:

There are very simple inscriptions that are often used, such as:

• Your family will never forget you.

• We will always remember you.

• You will always be in our thoughts.

• RIP.

Bible verses or religious phrases are also frequently used if the deceased person and their relatives are religious. For example:

• God rest your soul

• The family says a prayer for your soul

• Today there is one more angel in heaven

You can also choose simple and original phrases for headstones such as:

• We were blessed to have you in our life

• We all die but few of us live like you did

• So much love you leave with us and so much love you take with you

Use these examples as a guide when you are choosing headstone inscriptions. At Áltima we offer a complete headstone inscription service. Our team will be able to advise you on everything when it comes to making this very important decision.