Where can you have a custom headstone made from your own materials such as a large piece of petrified wood or rock?

A good first-step may be to check with a local stone mason who may have had similar requests in the past. Additional sources may be found through the art department of a local major university, or possibly even local art galleries.

A caveat; many, if not most, cemeteries, have strict and unyielding regulations regarding what is permitted in the form of grave markings. These regulations exist mainly for the purpose of providing a consistency and overall aesthetic balance. Additional considerations must be made regarding space allotment. There have been sad occasions when family members have spent substantial amounts of money for a headstone which violated cemetery policies, especially when there was an encroachment of apportioned plot spaces.

Finally, as part of societal and environmental changes, strict regulations may apply regarding the material used for a headstone. Constant exposure to the elements, cleaning chemicals, blades of mowers, strimmers, etc., all contribute to the durability and sustainability of tributes.

Try speaking with the cemetery administrator for guidance. They may be able to provide a ready-made list of approved headstone artists who are familiar with the strict regulations for your locale.