ou may recognize a headstone shape from a photograph without knowing what to call it. Some stones have a gently curved top, others have a rounded arch, and some have a straight upper edge. Knowing these names makes it easier to explain the design you have in mind.
The outline is one part of the decision. It also needs to work with the names, dates, and artwork you want included, as well as the cemetery’s requirements. This guide explains common headstone shapes and what to consider before choosing yours.
Understanding Headstone Shapes and Styles
A headstone’s shape describes its outline. Serpentine, oval and straight-top usually refer to the upper edge of the stone. Its type describes the overall form of the memorial, such as an upright monument, flat marker or slant marker.
For example, an upright headstone can have a straight top and still stand vertically. A flat grave marker sits at or near ground level. Understanding that distinction helps you describe both the memorial type and the outline you prefer.
Woodside Granite’s headstone and grave marker guide explains the different memorial types if you are still deciding between them.
Common Headstone Shapes and Differences
Serpentine, oval, and straight-top profiles are among the options discussed in Woodside Granite’s guides. Their main difference is the line across the top of the stone. Compare that line first, then look at how the inscription fits beneath it.
Serpentine Top
A serpentine-top headstone has a gently flowing curve along its upper edge. You may also hear it called a serp top.
The top is neither a straight line nor a single rounded arch. If you like this profile, bring a reference photograph so the designer can see the particular curve you prefer.
Oval Top
An oval-top headstone has a rounded, arched upper edge. The term describes the top of the stone, rather than meaning the entire headstone is oval.
Its continuous rounded profile helps distinguish it from the flowing contour of a serpentine top. A photograph or design drawing makes the difference easier to see.
Straight Top
A straight-top headstone has a level, horizontal upper edge. It gives the stone a simple rectangular outline when paired with straight sides.
You may also see this described as a flat top.That term refers to the upper edge, not to a marker lying flat on the ground.
| Headstone Shape | What the Top Looks Like | How to Recognize It |
| Serpentine | A gently flowing curve | The upper line changes direction rather than forming one continuous arch |
| Oval | A rounded arch | The top follows a continuous rounded profile |
| Straight-top | A horizontal line | The upper edge is level |
These names describe the profile, but a reference image remains useful when discussing the exact design. Monument design guides distinguish curved serpentine tops, rounded oval tops, and straight horizontal tops.
More Headstone Shape Options
You do not have to choose from only three profiles. Woodside’s guides also discuss peaked tops, rounded corners, and custom outlines. These options change the silhouette of the memorial before lettering or artwork is added.
Peaked Tops and Rounded Corners
A peaked or rooftop profile rises toward a central point. Rounded corners soften the points where the top and sides meet.
When comparing these options, look at the whole outline. The height of a peak or the curve of a corner can change the appearance, so a shape name alone may not describe everything you want.
Custom Headstone Outlines
Custom gravestone shapes can include hearts, crosses, open books, and scroll-like outlines. Woodside also discusses designs developed from a family’s own idea.
A custom outline is different from an engraved symbol. A cross-shaped stone changes the memorial’s silhouette; a cross engraved on a rectangular headstone leaves the outer shape unchanged.
If you have a particular idea, share a photograph or sketch. Woodside can discuss the design with you, including what needs to be confirmed with the cemetery.
Check How the Inscription Fits
Consider the wording and artwork while choosing the outline. A shape that appeals to you in a photograph may need a different layout to accommodate your family’s details. Compare complete drawings rather than choosing the top edge in isolation.
Before reviewing a design, decide:
- How many names and dates need to appear.
- Whether you want a quotation, portrait, or symbol.
- Which details should receive the most space.
The amount of room available depends on the stone’s dimensions, outline, and layout. No shape automatically provides the best arrangement for every inscription. Ask to see how your wording fits on the proposed memorial.
For a broader look at lettering and artwork, explore Woodside’s headstone design options.
Check Cemetery Rules Before Choosing a Shape
Before settling on an outline, confirm what your cemetery permits for the specific section and plot. A preferred shape still needs to fit the permitted memorial type, dimensions, and placement.
Woodside Granite states that its team works directly with cemeteries to ensure regulations are met. Give the team the cemetery name and any plot information you have so those requirements can guide the design.
For a custom silhouette, ask for confirmation before approving production. Seeing a similar memorial elsewhere does not establish that the same design will be accepted on your plot.
Review Headstone Design Before Production
Woodside Granite’s ordering process includes a professional rendering for you to review. You can request changes before signing your approval, and production begins after the design is approved.
Use that review to check the outline alongside the inscription. Confirm spelling, dates, artwork placement, and the spacing between details. If the top curve or overall shape differs from what you expected, raise it before approving the drawing.
Discuss Your Headstone Design With Woodside Granite
You do not need to know every design term before speaking with Woodside. A photograph of the shape you like, your proposed inscription, and the cemetery details provide a useful starting point.
Explore Woodside’s custom upright monuments or contact the team to discuss an outline that works with your wording and the cemetery’s requirements.
FAQ
What shape is a tombstone?
A tombstone does not have one fixed shape. Common headstone profiles include serpentine, oval, straight-top, and peaked tops. Custom silhouettes are also possible. The appropriate choice depends on the proposed design and what the cemetery permits.
Is an oval-top headstone the same as a serpentine top?
An oval top has a continuous rounded arch. A serpentine top has a flowing curve that changes direction. Compare labeled examples or bring a reference photograph when discussing the profile you prefer.
Does a straight top mean the headstone lies flat?
Straight top describes a level upper edge. An upright monument can have a straight top while standing vertically. A flat grave marker is a different memorial type that sits at or near ground level.
Can I request a custom headstone shape?
Woodside Granite discusses custom silhouettes and designs based on a family’s ideas. Share your reference image or sketch with the team, and confirm the proposed outline meets cemetery requirements before ordering.
Can I review the shape before production?
Woodside provides a professional rendering for review and changes before you sign your approval. Check the outline, wording, dates, and artwork together before production begins.
