Frequently Asked Questions



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  1. Where does granite come from?
  2. Why is granite better than marble?
  3. Can you custom design a monument?
  4. How long does it take once the memorial is ordered?
  5. Are there other fees involved besides the cost of the memorial?
  6. Can I have a photo put on the monument?
  7. Can I put whatever type of memorial I want in the cemetery?
  8. If I purchase a memorial from you and need future lettering on the stone, is that included in the price of the memorial?

Where does granite come from?
Most of our granite - Georgia Grey - comes from the quarries in Elberton, Ga. (See Fabrication Process). We also get granite from Barre, Vermont and the Dakotas.
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Why is granite better than marble?
Hundreds of years ago most of the memorials were made out of Marble and sandstone. In current time most memorials are made of granite. Marble is a softer material that will deteriorate and turn color with age. Granite is the third hardest stone in the world, with makes it an excellent material for a memorial.
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Can you custom design a monument?
Absolutely! With all the designs available on the computer we can custom design the memorial to be specific to you or your loved one. For example: we can add sports emblems, organization icons, photos, floral carvings, family crests, etc.
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How long does it take once the memorial is ordered?
Generally it will take 6 - 8 weeks, from the time the memorial is ordered until it is set in the cemetery. Time factors may include: weather, cemetery foundations, supplies on hand, etc.
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Are there other fees involved besides the cost of the memorial?
All cemeteries require that a foundation be put in under the monument. Some cemeteries will put in their own foundations and charge a foundation fee based on the size. Otherwise, we put in our own foundations which are covered under the cost of the memorial.
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Can I have a photo put on the monument?
Ceramic photos can be made from any black & white or color photo that you have. We mount the ceramic photos directly onto the granite. The companies that provide this service for us guarantee the photos for a life time against chipping and fading.
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Can I put whatever type of memorial I want in the cemetery?
No. Each cemetery has there own rules pertaining to the types of memorials that can be installed. Some accept only flat or flush markers, some only bronze markers or only certain colors. There may be size restrictions as well. It is better to check with the cemetery for a list of there regulations prior to designing a memorial.
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If I purchase a memorial from you and need future lettering on the stone, is that included in the price of the memorial?
No. There is a separate fee for any additional lettering after the stone is set.
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H. W. Parker and Son Monument Company
39024 East Colonial Highway
Hamilton, VA 20158
Phone: 540-338-3138
Monday and Friday: 9 - 1
Saturday 9 - 12
Other hours by appointment
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