PLANNING YOUR MEMORIAL
Planning a memorial is usually something people do once in a lifetime. We at Jahn Monuments are here to guide you through the process and create a memorial that will last forever. Our goal is to provide you with enough information to be confident in the choices you make and to assure you will be more than satisfied when the monument is placed in the cemetery.
What Determines the Price of a Memorial?
One of the most commonly asked questions is “How much does it cost?” The answer you might hear from others is “We have the lowest price,” but we know the lowest price isn’t always the best choice. We strive to go above and beyond what is necessary to satisfy your needs and budget with a memorial price that is fair and reasonable.
GRANITE GRADE
The number one contributor to the cost is the quality level or grade of granite used. Just like all natural products, there is usually a range of grade levels. Grading granite might be compared to grading lumber with as many as seven grade levels from economy to select determined by the knots, wanes, warping, splits and other factors. If you have ever considered purchasing a diamond, you learned there is a range of quality levels in this natural product. A one carat diamond will have numerous pricing levels based on the stone’s quality.
These rules apply to granite as well. From economy to the most select, we will show you the differences. No matter what quality level you select, you can be confident knowing what to expect from the granite you choose.
COLOR
Granite color is determined by the various minerals that came in contact with the molten material as it came to the surface and solidified as the earth cooled. The deepest and darkest colors are generally of a higher grade, higher cost, and produce the finest carvings and lettering. Gray granites are the most abundant and usually less expensive. Most blacks and reds generally yield a higher price and the rest of the colors will most often fall into the middle price range.
SIZE
The size of the memorial is certainly a contributor to the cost. However, by adjusting the choice of color or quality level, similar sized monuments could easily have a noticeable price difference.
CRAFTSMANSHIP
No matter what quality level or color you select, how the lettering and carving work is done on the finished granite is one of the most often overlooked features of a memorial selection. Our techniques produce the most satisfying results. We take no shortcuts in the lettering process, unlike others who use less expensive methods to keep the cost low. You will be shown the difference so that you know the lettering is done with the best materials available. We have total control over the memorial production from the quarry to the cemetery.
A memorial’s purpose is to remember and honor the life of a loved one and to reflect on their life.
See our information guide to learn more.