Tombstones not only serve to indicate a burial location, but also commemorate the life and death of the deceased forevermore. Many times, couples are buried directly next to each other in a double burial plot, leaving little room or need for two individual tombstones. Learn about the different styles of companion tombstones -- also known as headstones and grave markers -- to make the most appropriate choice for you and your spouse or another beloved couple, such as parents or siblings. Remember that in addition to style, companion tombstones also vary in material, two common ones being granite and bronze.

 

Flats
 

Flat companion tombstones are the simplest double tombstone style. The stone is a short, flat rectangle that sits 3 to 4 inches above the ground, with each partner’s name inscribed on either side of the stone. Flat companion tombstones come in a variety of colors and thicknesses.

 

Uprights
 

Upright companion tombstones are not as wide as flat stones, but are much taller. The stone is usually rectangular or square and sits atop a thick, short base. The front face of the stone is engraved with each couple’s name, and the large amount of inscribable surface space allows for other sentiments, such as epitaphs or descriptions like “beloved parents” to be engraved on the face of the tombstone.

Slants
 

Slanted companion tombstones stones sit 12 to 16 inches or more above the ground, similar to upright stones, but instead of taking the shape of a square or rectangle, the stone resembles more of a triangle or wedge, with the front side of the stone slanting downward. Most companion slanted tombstones are rectangular in shape, which allows adequate room for engraving two names on the sides of the slanted stone face.

 

Pillow Top
 

A pillow top companion tombstone is like a cross between a flat and slanted tombstone. These markers are rectangular are approximately 6 to 8 inches tall at their highest point along the back of the marker. The top surface of the stone slants downward to approximately 2 inches in height at the front of the headstone. The top, slanted surface of the rectangular stone is often inscribed with a name on each end of the tombstone.

 

Benches
 

Benches are an alternative to traditional tombstones and make an elegant, appropriate grave marker for a double burial plot. Benches range in material and design, but often feature a wide front panel where a couple’s names, a family name or brief poem or epitaph can be inscribed. They also provide a place for mourners and other grave visitors to sit, rest and reflect.