FAQ

WHAT IS GRANITE?

Granite is a natural volcanic igneous rock containing mineral crystals of quartz, feldspar and mica. Granite is formed as molten magma cools slowly deep underground, allowing the crystals from the minerals to grow large enough to be easily seen by the naked eye.

When molten magma is cooled under great pressure, the resulting granite is extremely hard, being able to endure great weight and force. Enormously durable, granite is highly resistant to weathering, making it an excellent material for memorials.

Granite is stronger, has less water absorption and in general is more resistant to staining than marble.

WILL THE POLISH ON GRANITE WEAR OFF?

No. The polished surface of granite is not an applied polish. Granite is polished in much the same way raw opals are polished. Optimum results are achieved only after completing a multi-stage wet polishing process. 

Polished granite surfaces are highly resistant to weathering and maintain their polished appearance over centuries.

HOW DURABLE IS THE LETTERING ON GRANITE?

Sandblasted letters are permanent. Unlike natural finish, gold and paint filled letters may require refurbishing after 15-20 years. 

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RAISED AND INCISED LETTERING?

A raised inscription is when the background is sandblasted away leaving the lettering raised in granite. Sometimes the raised letters are inside banners or ribbons. Incised letters are where the letters are sandblasted directly into the granite to create recesses for gold leaf or paint fill.

HOW IS A GRANITE MEMORIAL CLEANED?

Absolute minimal maintenance is required for a polished granite memorial:

• Polished Granite - Polished surfaces easily wash with water and a sponge. Abrasive cleaners and materials can scratch the polished surface and should never be used. Never use wire brushes or steel pads, only use soft bristle, non-scratch brushes and sponges.
• Granite memorials should be carefully swept or dusted before applying any pressure to the surface to prevent dirt and grit causing abrasive action on the polished surface.
• Oil and grease should be soaked up quickly and not wiped from surface as it will spread and penetrate the surface, leaving a stain. The residual stain can be partially dissipated into the granite by absorbing with a non-oily solvent, i.e. Toluene, white spirits, methylated spirits.
• Melted candle wax can soak in and stain granite. When the granite is heated by the sun, candle wax melts, penetrating the surface,                                   resulting in stains that cannot be fully removed.
• Unpolished Granite - Unpolished surfaces may need high pressure water blasting once every few years or so, depending on climate & positioning of the memorial.
• Gold Letters - Squeeze a clean wet sponge above lettering to allow water to gently flow down over the gold. Never touch the gold with hands or fingers - oils from the skin will react with the gold and cause it to discolour. Never wipe gold, as every contact removes a minute layer of the gold leaf. Gold can be re-gilded when required, but only by a skilled tradesperson.

DO YOU CATER TO ALL NATIONALITIES?

Yes, we cater to all nationalities, religions and cultures. We work in all cemeteries and can produce headstone inscriptions in all languages.

CAN YOU CUSTOMISE MEMORIALS?

Yes, Globe Memorial Co Pty Ltd in Sydney frequently customises & manufactures memorials. 

Our experienced staff can help you create a memorial of beauty and remembrance.

WHAT IS A PHOTO-ETCHING?

A photo-etching is exactly that - a photo etched into granite. A photo of your choice is etched into the polished black granite surface, using a sandblasting technique. 

The artwork is highlighted with white/grey paint, to lift the contrast of the chosen photo.

HOW MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE DO YOU HAVE?

We have over 55 years and three generations of experience. With a solid reputation for quality and skilled craftsmanship, we source only the best materials to produce first class memorials for our clients throughout Sydney & beyond.

DO YOU PROVIDE LAWN AND KERBED MONUMENTS?

Globe Memorial Co Pty Ltd is proud to have built some of the finest monuments in Sydney and surrounds. 

We build Lawn and Kerbed memorials, as well as niche walls and columbariums.

CAN YOU ADD AN INSCRIPTION TO AN EXISTING MEMORIAL?

Yes, we regularly add inscriptions to existing memorials both onsite and at our factory. We can match existing sizes and styles.

WHAT DO YOU SPECIALISE IN?

We specialise in the design and construction of high quality headstones, memorials and monuments. 

We offer a wide range of services to the communities of Sydney, Greater Sydney, including the Blue Mountains and beyond.

DO YOU PROVIDE MEMORIAL RENOVATIONS AND THE REFURBISHMENT OF INSCRIPTIONS?

Yes, we frequently provide memorial renovations, monument cleaning and repair work. Inscriptions are refurbished by re-gilding or paint filling. 

We can re-create damaged or worn headstones and re-face headstones as required.

DO YOU PROVIDE MEMORIAL ACCESSORIES?

Yes, we provide a wide range of accessories including ceramic photos, granite and marble vases, bronze ware, statues and plaques. 

Our granite photo etchings are unmatched for an individual and striking addition to any memorial.