Frequently Asked Questions

Granite is a natural stone formed deep underground, made of mineral crystals like quartz, feldspar, and mica. As molten rock cools slowly under immense pressure, these minerals grow into visible crystals, giving granite its strength and unique beauty.
Known for its durability, granite is highly resistant to weathering, making it one of the finest materials for memorials. Compared to marble, it absorbs less water, is harder to stain, and holds its structure for generations.

No, granite’s polish is not a surface coating. It’s created through a multi-stage wet polishing process, much like refining an opal. The result is a smooth, glass-like finish that doesn’t wear away and will maintain its shine for centuries with minimal maintenance.

Sandblasted lettering is permanent. However, any gold leaf or painted infill may naturally fade after time. When that happens, it can be refreshed by our team through re-gilding or paint restoration.

• Raised lettering is created by removing the surrounding background, allowing the letters to stand out from the granite’s surface. This style is often used within carved banners or ribbons.
• Incised lettering is etched into the stone using sandblasting or traditional V-Cut. These recessed letters can then be filled with gold leaf or paint for contrast. Both options are customisable and can be designed to reflect your preferences.

Polished granite requires very little maintenance. Here’s how to care for it:

Polished surfaces:

• Use clean water and a soft sponge or cloth.
• Avoid wire brushes or abrasive pads – these may scratch the surface.
• Gently sweep or dust the memorial before cleaning to prevent scratching from grit.
• Oil, grease, or candle wax should be soaked up immediately (not wiped), as they may stain. Any residue can be treated with non-oily solvents such as white spirits, methylated spirits, or toluene.

Unpolished surfaces:

• May benefit from professional high-pressure cleaning every few years, depending on weather and placement.

Gold leaf lettering:

• Never touch gold directly. Let water run gently over the surface using a damp sponge.
• Do not rub or wipe – gold leaf is delicate and contact may wear it away.
• Gold can be re-gilded when needed by a skilled tradesperson.

Tip: If you’re unsure, we’re always here to provide professional maintenance advice or services.

Yes. We honour all nationalities, faiths, and cultural traditions. Our team can produce inscriptions in any language and work across all cemeteries, ensuring every memorial reflects the identity and values of the person it commemorates.

Absolutely. At Globe Memorial, every memorial can be customised – from design and material to inscriptions and symbols. Our experienced team will guide you through the process to create something meaningful, beautiful, and unique to your wishes.

A photo-etching is a detailed image etched directly into polished black granite using a fine sandblasting technique. To enhance contrast, the artwork is finished with soft white or grey highlights – creating a striking and permanent tribute.

Globe Memorial has over 70 years and three generations of experience in memorial design and construction. Known for our craftsmanship and trusted service, we work with only the highest quality materials to deliver lasting results across Sydney and beyond.

Yes. We regularly add inscriptions to existing memorials – either onsite or at our facility. We take great care to match the size, style, and finish of the original lettering for a natural result.

We specialise in the design, construction, and restoration of high-quality headstones, monuments, and memorials. Our work spans Sydney, Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, and beyond – offering services that reflect experience, precision, and tradition.

Yes. We offer memorial renovations, including monument cleaning, repairs, and inscription restoration. We can re-gild or repaint lettering, reface weathered stone, and replicate damaged elements to restore the memorial’s original integrity.

Yes. We offer a wide range of memorial accessories, including ceramic photos, granite and marble vases, bronze ware, plaques, and religious or decorative statues. Our granite photo etchings are a beautifully individual addition to any tribute.