Headstone Prices and Selection: Materials, Size and Costs 2026
· Updated · 7 min
A headstone in Finland typically costs roughly €1,000–5,000 installed – granite is the most common material and withstands the Finnish climate best.
- Granite headstone: indicatively €1,000–5,000 depending on size and finish
- Engraving and gilding: €200–800 depending on the amount of text
- Installation and foundation: €200–500
A headstone is a lasting memorial
A headstone is the most visible and enduring way to honour the deceased's memory. It is also one of the last decisions related to the funeral – and there is no need to rush it. Many people order the headstone months after the funeral, when the acute grief has eased somewhat and thoughts are clearer.
In this guide, we cover headstone materials, sizes, costs, and practical matters from ordering to installation.
Headstone prices 2026
Total cost breakdown
Prices below are indicative and vary between stone masons; some sell stones with engraving and installation included.
| Cost item | Price (indicative) |
|---|---|
| Stone (material + shaping) | approx. €500–4,000 |
| Engraving (text + symbols) | €200–800 |
| Gilding or painting | €100–300 |
| Foundation and installation | €200–500 |
| Transport | €50–200 |
| Typical total | approx. €1,000–5,000 |
Price by size category
| Type | Size (cm) | Indicative price |
|---|---|---|
| Urn grave headstone | 40×50 | €800–1,500 |
| Small headstone | 50×60 | €1,200–2,000 |
| Medium-sized | 60×70 | €1,500–3,000 |
| Large headstone | 70×90 | €2,500–4,500 |
| Family headstone | 80×100+ | €3,000–7,000 |
| Custom order | Free size | €5,000+ |
Materials
Granite – by far the most common
The vast majority of Finnish headstones are made of granite or other hard plutonic rock, and for good reason: it withstands Finland's harsh winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and moisture for decades without significant deterioration.
Most popular granite types:
- Black gabbro or diabase – Very popular. A dark surface on which engraving and gilding stand out beautifully. Price: mid-range.
- Red granite – Traditional and warm. Finnish bedrock at its finest. Balmoral Red is one of the best-known varieties.
- Grey granite – Understated and timeless. More affordable than black or red. Particularly suited to modern designs.
- Green granite – Rarer, distinctive. Green tones are available in both domestic and imported stone.
- Brown granite – Warm and earthy. Popular in rural areas.
Marble
Beautiful and traditional, but does not withstand the Finnish climate as well as granite. Marble is a softer stone that deteriorates in frost and stains more easily. Best suited to indoor settings or sheltered locations.
Untreated natural stone
Split or only roughly polished natural stone gives a natural, rustic appearance. A more affordable option, as the grinding and polishing work is eliminated.
Wood and metal
A wooden memorial marker is suitable for a memorial grove, for example, or as a temporary marker. A metal cross or nameplate is an affordable and durable option for a small memorial.
Engraving and text
What is usually engraved on a headstone?
Basic information:
- The deceased's first name and surname
- Year of birth and year of death (or exact dates)
- Possible maiden name: née Virtanen
- Possible nickname in quotation marks
Symbols:
- Cross (traditional Lutheran)
- Dove (symbol of peace)
- Candle or flame
- Tree or leaf (connection to nature)
- Heart (love)
- Custom image or portrait (via laser engraving)
Memorial phrases:
- "Longing never fades"
- "In the light of memory"
- "In love"
- "Rest in peace"
- "Your light still shines"
- A personal text or line of poetry
Engraving techniques
- Deep engraving – The traditional technique, where text is carved into the stone and gilded or painted. The most durable option.
- Laser engraving – Precise and versatile. Makes it possible to transfer a photograph or detailed pattern onto the stone. Produces especially stunning results on black gabbro.
- Sandblasting – A more affordable technique, suited to clear text and simple symbols.
Gilding
Gilding is the most traditional and striking finish for an engraving. Genuine gold leaf lasts a long time, but the need for renewal depends on conditions. Alternatives include silver plating or bronze painting, which are less expensive.
Size and shape
Cemetery regulations
Under Section 14 of the Burial Act, a memorial must suit the general appearance of the cemetery and is approved by the cemetery administrator. Every cemetery sets its own limits on headstone size. Example size classes (vary by cemetery):
- Urn grave: maximum 50×60 cm
- Single grave: maximum 60×80 cm
- Family grave: maximum 80×100 cm or larger
Important: Check the cemetery's regulations before ordering. The stone mason can usually advise.
Shape options
- Rectangle – The most common and most affordable. A clean, timeless shape.
- Curved top – Softens the appearance. Popular in Finland.
- Irregular – A natural split form. Distinctive.
- Book shape – A headstone in the form of an open book. Traditional.
- Heart – Especially for children's or spouses' headstones.
Ordering step by step
1. Decide on the timing
There is no need to order a headstone immediately. Many people wait 2–6 months after the funeral. Stones are generally not installed while the ground is frozen, so the ordering schedule should be planned accordingly.
2. Check the cemetery regulations
Contact the cemetery administrator (parish or municipality) and ask about:
- Permitted size classes
- Material and colour restrictions
- Foundation requirements
3. Request quotes
Request a quote from 2–3 stone masons. Compare:
- Material quality and origin
- Engraving work price and technique
- Whether installation and foundation are included in the price
- Delivery time
4. Plan the text and design
The stone mason will produce a design for you to review before ordering. Check carefully:
- Names and dates (a spelling error on a headstone is expensive to fix)
- Font and size
- Symbols and illustrations
- Layout and balance
5. Approve and order
Once the design is finalised, the stone mason begins the work. Production time is typically 2–4 months.
6. Installation
The stone mason handles the installation and foundation. Installation generally requires the ground to be unfrozen.
Headstone maintenance
A granite headstone requires little maintenance, but longevity is improved with a few simple measures:
- Wash in spring: Water and a soft brush. Do not use chemical cleaning agents.
- Lichen removal: Lichen can grow in shaded cemeteries. Remove carefully without harsh chemicals.
- Gilding renewal: As needed, when the gilding has faded. The stone mason handles this.
- Winter protection: Not usually necessary for granite. Marble benefits from protection.
- Settling correction: If the stone tilts due to ground settling, the stone mason can straighten it.
Urn grave headstone vs. coffin grave headstone
| Feature | Urn grave headstone | Coffin grave headstone |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 40–50 cm | 60–100 cm |
| Price (indicative) | approx. €600–1,500 | approx. €1,000–5,000 |
| Installation | Lighter | Requires a foundation |
| Shape options | All | All |
| Adding names later | More limited | More spacious |
Family headstone
A family headstone is designed for multiple deceased. Points to consider:
- Reserve space for additional names – A surviving spouse's details are added later.
- Larger size – A family headstone is typically 80×100 cm or larger.
- Unified design – Engraving is easier to execute harmoniously when the whole is planned from the start.
- Cost-effectiveness – One large stone is more affordable than two separate ones.
Affordable alternatives
If your budget is limited:
- Smaller stone – A 40×50 cm stone is perfectly adequate for an urn grave.
- Grey granite – Often more affordable than black or red.
- Simple engraving – Name, years, and a cross. No gilding.
- Sandblasted text – More affordable than deep engraving.
- Natural-form stone – No polishing, a natural surface.
- Reconditioned headstone – Some stone masons sell refurbished stones.
Read more about total funeral costs and arranging affordable funerals.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How much does a headstone cost?
The total cost of a headstone is typically roughly €1,000–5,000. The price is affected by material, size, design, engraving, and installation. Prices are indicative and vary between stone masons: small stone plaques cost a few hundred euros, while large family headstones and custom orders can cost several thousand euros. Ask for quotes from 2–3 stone masons.
What is the best material for a headstone?
Granite is by far the best and most common material in Finland. It withstands frost, moisture, and UV radiation for decades. Popular types include black gabbro or diabase (dark, high-contrast engraving), red granite (traditional, warm), and grey granite (understated, timeless). Marble is beautiful but deteriorates faster in the Finnish climate.
How long does it take to get a headstone?
The typical production time for a headstone is 2–6 months from the order. In winter, the stone cannot be installed while the ground is frozen, so stones ordered after October are generally installed the following spring. Many people order the headstone soon after the funeral, but there is no reason to rush – the decision can be considered at leisure.
What is written on a headstone?
A headstone typically includes: the deceased's name, years of birth and death (or exact dates), a possible maiden name, and a nickname. In addition, a cross or other symbol and a short memorial phrase are often engraved. For a family headstone, a spouse's details are added later. The text is agreed upon with the engraver.
Do you need permission for a headstone?
Yes. Under Section 14 of the Burial Act, the holder of the grave right decides on the memorial, but it must be approved by the cemetery administrator (usually the parish). Most cemeteries have guidelines on permitted stone sizes. The stone mason typically handles the permit application on the customer's behalf. In many parishes the memorial permit is free of charge, but practices vary.