Granite Samples & Monument Colors

Explore the Beauty and Strength of Granite

Granite has long been the material of choice for headstones and monuments — and for good reason. It’s strong, naturally beautiful, weather-resistant, and available in a wide variety of colors and finishes. At Borth Memorials, we offer a curated selection of premium granite samples so you can see, feel, and choose the stone that best represents your loved one’s memory.



Whether you’re designing a traditional upright monument or a flat marker, the granite you select sets the tone for the entire piece. We’ll guide you through the selection process and help you choose a color and finish that reflects your loved one’s personality, heritage, or style.

Granite headstone with two vases of flowers in a grassy field.

Popular Granite Colors We Offer

Below are some of the most commonly selected granite colors we display in our Sleepy Eye showroom. Each variety has its own unique grain, texture, and tone. Color availability may vary based on supplier and quarry location.

Black Granite

A popular choice for its dramatic contrast and timeless look. Black granite is especially well-suited for etched portraits or laser-engraved artwork due to its high clarity.

  • Deep black with minimal grain
  • Ideal for detailed etchings
  • Elegant and formal appearance

Gray Granite

Classic and neutral, gray granite offers a clean, traditional look. It works well with both carved and sandblasted lettering.

  • Light to medium tones
  • Subtle, even grain
  • Often used for veterans’ and companion markers

Red Granite

Warm and vibrant, red granite adds visual interest and symbolism. Often associated with love, strength, and remembrance.

  • Deep rose or brick-red tones
  • Varies in pattern and brightness
  • Makes inscriptions pop when sandblasted

Pink Granite

Softer in tone than red, pink granite carries a gentle, calming presence. A thoughtful choice for children's memorials or family plots.

  • Light rose with soft grain patterns
  • Subtle, elegant finish
  • Works well with polished or honed surfaces

Mahogany Granite

Rich brown-red stone with swirling grains and texture. It brings a sense of earthiness and depth to any memorial design.

  • Medium to dark tones
  • Highly durable and eye-catching
  • Ideal for larger monuments or slants

Blue Pearl or Imported Colors

Some families choose unique imported granites like blue pearl, emerald pearl, or India black, known for their reflective crystals and high polish.

  • Distinctive shimmer under light
  • Considered premium-grade materials
  • Adds a modern or upscale touch

Why Granite Is Ideal for Memorials

Granite is valued for more than just its appearance. It’s one of the most durable natural materials on earth, capable of withstanding harsh Minnesota winters, summer sun, and decades of exposure with minimal wear.

Key Benefits of Granite:

  • Durability: Resistant to moisture, fading, and erosion
  • Beauty: Natural color variations add character and richness
  • Low Maintenance: Holds engraving and etching for generations
  • Versatility: Suitable for monuments, markers, slants, urns, and plaques
  • Timeless Appeal: Offers both classic and modern aesthetic options


With proper care — or even with none at all — granite memorials can last for centuries.

Granite Finishes: Polished, Honed, or Rough

Once you’ve chosen a granite color, the finish will further define the look and feel of your memorial.


  • Polished Finish - Glossy and reflective, a polished finish enhances the color and depth of granite. Ideal for modern designs and laser etching.
  • Honed Finish - Smooth but non-reflective. Honed granite has a matte surface that’s easier to read from a distance and suitable for traditional styles.
  • Rock Pitch or Rough Cut - Natural-textured edges or backs that contrast with the polished face. Adds character and dimension, often used for upright monuments.

Our staff will help you choose the right finish based on design, placement, and cemetery regulations.

Gray stone tombstone with family name

How to View Granite Samples

Visit Our Showroom

We invite you to visit our indoor display at Borth Memorials — the largest in Southern Minnesota — where you can view granite samples under natural and artificial light. Compare color tones, texture, engraving contrast, and monument shapes side by side.

Request a Preview or Photo Sample

If you're planning from a distance, we can send granite photos or provide digital previews based on your selected style. While in-person viewing is always preferred, we’ll help make remote design decisions as clear and confident as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Are some granite colors more expensive than others?

    Yes. Granite prices vary based on color rarity, quarry location, and availability. Imported stones or uncommon colors may cost more than standard gray or black. We’ll provide full pricing details up front.

  • Will the granite color fade over time?

    No. Quality granite does not fade. Unlike artificial stone or painted surfaces, natural granite maintains its color for decades with minimal change, especially when polished.

  • Can I match a granite color to an existing family monument?

    In most cases, yes. We’ll identify the closest match from our catalog and verify compatibility before production. We recommend bringing a photo or description of the existing stone if possible.

  • Can I choose multiple granite colors in one memorial?

    Yes. Some designs include contrasting granite for the base, columns, or inlays. This option allows for striking visual combinations but may affect price and production time.

Let’s Find the Perfect Granite for Your Tribute

Choosing granite is a meaningful part of the memorial process — it sets the tone, supports the design, and ensures long-term durability. At Borth Memorials, we’ll help you select a granite that reflects your loved one’s legacy with beauty, strength, and care.