A vase is one of the most used additions on a headstone. It holds the bouquet brought on every visit and, all year round, shapes the look of the memorial. So when choosing, don’t focus only on colour. Proportions, height, insert size, weight and the space available on the slab all matter. This guide takes you through the key decisions — from measuring to choosing the granite and personalisation.
Start by measuring the space on the slab
Measure the area where the vase will stand. Allow not only for the base of the vase, but also for the bouquet, which is always wider than the vase itself, plus space for a grave lantern and candles. The vase should not cover inscriptions or make cleaning the slab difficult. For an unusually shaped headstone, take a top-down photo and note the dimensions — it will be easier to compare them with the figures on the product page.
Choose height and proportions
Granite vases in the StoneOnline range are usually around 18 to 29 cm high. On a small slab, lower and slimmer models look better; on a larger family headstone, taller and more substantial ones do. A good reference point is the grave lantern: if the vase will stand next to it, compare the height of both elements and leave a comfortable gap between them.
Many models come in several sizes of the same form. For example, the classic goblet-shaped WSTANDARD vase is available in four sizes, making it easy to match the scale of the headstone without changing the style.
Insert: it determines what flowers will fit
A granite vase usually has a removable insert for water and flowers. In our vases, inserts have, depending on the model, a diameter of around 6,3 to 9 cm and a height of 10 to 18 cm. A wider, deeper insert will hold a fuller bouquet with longer stems; a narrower one suits single flowers and small arrangements. A removable insert also makes it easier to pour out stale water and clean the interior.
Shape and style
- Goblet and classic forms suit traditional headstones with milled edges.
- Simple, cylindrical vases look good on modern, smooth slabs.
- Spherical and unusual forms become a clear accent — they work well when the rest of the composition is calm.
It’s worth pairing the vase shape with the grave lantern. If you want a guaranteed match, consider a ready-made grave vase and lantern set.
Granite colour
The vase can echo the colour of the headstone or create a gentle contrast. At StoneOnline, most vases can be ordered in one of 40+ stone varieties — from black Swedish Black, through grey and red granites, to light Viscount White. Remember that granite is a natural stone: shade, veining and grain may vary slightly between pieces, and screens don’t always render colour faithfully. Read more about varieties in the article Types of granite: colours, patterns and properties.
Weight and stability
A granite vase usually weighs around 2 to 14 kg. That’s an advantage, as a heavy vase stands securely even in wind and with a large bouquet. It also means installation and placement should be planned in advance. Our vase pages indicate fixing to the headstone with silicone. We describe the details in the guide How to install a grave vase on a headstone?
Engraving and drain
You can order additional finishing options for vases:
- engraving — e.g. initials that personalise the vase and add a measure of theft protection,
- drain hole — helps rainwater escape,
- a combination of both options.
You’ll see the availability and price of options in the configurator on the specific product.
Frequently asked questions
What vase height is suitable for a single headstone?
On a typical single headstone, vases around 20–28 cm high work well. The final choice depends on the size of the slab and whether a grave lantern will stand alongside — compare the dimensions of both elements before buying.
Do granite vases have an insert?
Most vases have a removable insert for water and flowers. You’ll find its dimensions on the product page under the features “Insert diameter” and “Insert height”.
Can I order a vase to match my headstone colour?
Vases are available in many granite varieties. Choose the variety that matches your headstone and compare the photos. If an exact colour match is crucial, contact us before ordering.
Before you buy, check
- the vase height and diameter, and the base dimensions,
- the insert dimensions,
- the weight and the recommended fixing method,
- the granite variety and information on natural stone variation,
- available options: engraving and drain.
Ready to choose? See all granite grave vases or ready-made granite sets.
