Understanding the Differences Between Flat or Grass Markers, Hickey or Bevel Markers, and Upright Monuments
If you’ve ever started looking into memorial options for a loved one, you’ve probably realized pretty quickly that there are more choices than you expected. People often come to us at Merkle Monuments with the same question:
“What’s the difference between a flat marker, a grass marker, and an upright monument?” It’s a great question, because the names can sound similar, but the final look (and how it fits into a cemetery) can be very different. Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.
Flat or Grass Markers (Flat on the Ground)
A flat marker is exactly what it sounds like: a memorial that sits flush with the ground. These are commonly made from granite or bronze, and they tend to have a clean, simple look.
Flat markers are a popular option because they’re usually easier for cemetery grounds crews to maintain around, and they offer a very classic appearance without being too bold or tall.
You can still personalize them, too, with names, dates, artwork, religious symbols, and even small design elements that reflect the person’s life. Flat doesn’t have to mean plain.
Hickey or Bevel Markers (Raised Slightly Above the Ground)
A grass marker is similar in shape and design to a flat marker, but it sits slightly above ground level instead of being completely flush. In other words, you’ll see a bit more of it when you’re standing nearby.
Some families prefer this style because it’s still low and subtle, but it’s a little easier to locate and read when you’re visiting the gravesite.
This is a nice “in-between” option; simple and traditional, but with a bit more visibility than a fully flat marker.
Upright Monuments (Vertical Headstones)
An upright monument is what most people picture when they think of a headstone. These memorials stand vertically and are usually set on a base. Because they’re taller and more prominent, they’re often easier to spot from a distance and can feel more like a dedicated place of remembrance.
Upright monuments also give you a lot more space for design options, such as larger lettering, carved imagery, etched portraits, and meaningful phrases or details that tell a fuller story.
Upright monuments are very common for family plots, but we create upright monuments for individual gravesites quite often as well.
So… Which One Is “Best”?
Here’s the truth: there’s no one right answer. The best choice depends on your cemetery’s regulations, your family’s preferences, and the kind of tribute that feels most fitting for that person. Some families want something simple and understated. Others want a memorial that makes a stronger visual statement. Every situation is different, and that’s completely okay.
If you’re not sure where to begin, we’re happy to walk you through the options, show examples, and help you choose something that feels right. At Merkle Monuments we believe a memorial should be personal, lasting, and created with care. It’s more than stone, it’s a way to honor someone’s life.